Violence Begets Violence

INTRODUCTION

As of this writing, the war of Israel against Hamas in the Gaza territory is raging and having a devastating impact on the population. Israel is at war against the militant group Hamas for its attack on the country killing 1,400 people and taking more than 200 hostages.

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The onslaught prompted the Israeli army to retaliate in force, with daily bombardments that have already left more than 9,000 dead, including nearly 5,000 children.

Hamas’ crimes were pure terrorism. The carnage in the homes of civilians was pure barbarism and a manifestation of cowardice. Attacking people in their homes, burning some, torturing others, and shooting some others at point-blank range is brutality  and savagery. There can be no justification for such crimes.

The Israeli government reacted with ruthless revenge. From being a victim Israel has now become an aggressor. Its tactic is collective punishment which targets both innocent civilians and Hamas fighters  indiscriminately.

However, the tide is turning reverting against Israel; demonstrations are held every day worldwide against the war in Gaza and the “genocide of the Palestinian people.” More governments are severing diplomatic ties with Israel, and Islamic countries have united  in their defense of their brothers and sisters.

Israel’s government won’t accept a truce or a mere pause in the military intervention in Gaza. The Israeli Prime Minister needs to win the war so as to remain at the head of the government. But, criticism of the government’s strategy in managing the war has become more audible in the streets.

Furthermore, there is the realistic threat of the expansion of the war to other countries in the region, widening the circle of confrontation to the Middle East which would be a total disaster.

In spite of all the bad omens, the proponents of the war say it goes on for a long time. Even if Israel wins by wiping out the Hamas militants, the military victory will not bring in any lasting solution to the grievances of both Israelis and Palestinians.

The cost will be too high; the death toll and destruction will be disproportionate. The current level of violence perpetrated by the Israeli army is sowing the seeds of resentment and anger in the population, particularly, in the young generations.

At least for now, we pray for a ceasefire and an end to this bloody war. May Jesus, the prince of peace, rein in our hearts, in the hearts of people trapped by hatred and revenge, and give way to sentiments of reconciliation and peace.

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