From time immemorial, the right to defend oneself from unprovoked aggression has been recognized in every civilization known to man. Indeed, the right to national self-defense in the face of attack has been recognized as an inherent right of states since the very emergence of international law. What’s good for the goose is good for the gander, right? Not when it comes to Israel unfortunately. Israel’s enemies and a sizeable section of the international community often take issue with Israel defending itself against aggression. It’s mind-boggling to see how Israel’s enemies attack Israel and then cry foul when Israel defends itself. Preposterous.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ISRAELI DEFENSE FORCE (IDF)

The Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) main purpose is to preserve the State of Israel, to protect its independence, and to stop its enemies from disrupting everyday life for Israel's citizens and residents. Contrary to the propaganda and misinformation purveyed by Israel’s enemies, the IDF in the execution of its duties, takes great care to protect civilians of the aggressor country. Who does that? The IDF is one of the most humane armies in the world. I know that from my father:

*Israeli soldiers take part in a rescue operation drill on the Northern Israeli border with Lebanon. January 11, 2024. Photo by Ayal Margolin/Flash90*

My father was a military man, who trained in Russia, Europe, and eventually ended up training as a commando in Israel in the 70s. Imagine an African man going through the rigors of military training in foreign lands. Alone, friendless, and grappling with the challenges of foreign cultures and language barriers, any gesture of kindness whether big or small was a big deal. He loved Israel because they offered him the best military training while affording him better humane treatment than any other country he had been to. The IDF is one of the most humane armies in the world.

Commenting on the humaneness of the IDF in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Israeli Lt. Col. Richard Hecht said, “Let me be clear about something: protecting civilians as far as possible in war is our moral obligation. Humanitarian measures and aid are also a strategic necessity, as they enable us to achieve our goal of targeting terrorists and separating them from civilians. From calling on civilian populations to evacuate from combat zones, to facilitating the entry of thousands of tons of humanitarian aid for Gazan residents, we have been going to great lengths to mitigate harm to the civilian population while fighting against the Hamas terror organization.”

To tell this story from start to finish, the IDF has produced a short video documenting the humanitarian efforts taken by the IDF in the Gaza Strip. Click here to watch it.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

In conclusion, the IDF has unequivocally stated that despite all the complexities in the ongoing operation and the different obstacles posed by Hamas, they remain committed to returning all Israeli hostages and dismantling Hamas, while also mitigating harm to civilians, supporting international humanitarian efforts, and coordinating efforts to facilitate as much aid as possible to the people of Gaza. Therefore, all contrary information furnished by Hamas is false and intended to mislead and beguile their people and the international community. Let’s remember that Hamas has never displayed a veracity for truth except as it relates to their intention to destroy Israel and kill every Jewish person within the Holy Land.

Someone once said that if you're going to win in life over trials, troubles, and tribulations - the things that the enemy brings your way - you're going to have to fight the war of words. Israel is fighting a physical war as well as the war of words. Stand with them and help them by sharing the truth with your family, friends, and associates. Truth matters!

Semper Veritatem, (Always seek the truth)

Jahan