Former Ambassador Describes Israel as ‘Resilient’ but ‘Very Lonely’ Six Months Into Gaza Conflict
According to former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren, Israel has proven to be “the strongest and most resilient society on the planet” since the attack by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7, 2023. However, despite this strength, Israel has felt a sense of isolation on the global stage as it continues its military campaign to defeat Hamas and secure the release of its hostages.
In a recent interview with NTD’s Kelly Wright, Mr. Oren reflected on Israel’s global standing and the progress of its war efforts in the Gaza Strip, which have now surpassed the six-month mark.
Following the attack on Oct. 7, some 360,000 young Israelis responded to military reserve duty, with some units experiencing response rates exceeding 150 percent. Mr. Oren highlighted Israel’s resilience and internal fortitude, attributing its survival and success as a people to these qualities.
However, he also expressed a sense of loneliness, noting the lack of understanding from the world and the rise of anti-Semitism in various parts of the world. Despite facing what he described as potential existential threats, Israel feels isolated in its struggles.
Criticism of Israel has focused on the humanitarian costs of the war in Gaza and the civilian casualties resulting from the conflict. Some have accused Israel of committing genocide against the Palestinian population, leading to condemnation from various quarters.
Last month, Israel faced renewed criticism after a chaotic incident in Gaza City resulted in casualties among aid workers. Israeli officials claimed the casualties were due to people being trampled or run over, while Palestinian rights groups insisted that Israeli gunfire was responsible for the deaths.
Israel faced criticism after airstrikes targeted a humanitarian aid convoy, resulting in the deaths of aid workers. The IDF took action against officers involved in the incident following an internal investigation, acknowledging that the strikes did not meet Israeli military standards.
Biden Admin Criticism
Mr. Oren noted a shift in President Biden’s stance, with increased criticism of Israel’s war efforts. Despite earlier support, public condemnation has grown regarding civilian casualties and alleged mistreatment of Palestinians, which Mr. Oren refuted as untrue.
President Biden expressed outrage over the attacks on aid convoys, criticizing Israel for the deaths of aid workers and the challenges in distributing humanitarian aid in Gaza.
Mr. Oren raised concerns that such criticism could be used against Israel’s human rights record in international forums, urging the administration to reconsider its statements.
Mr. Oren recalled past policy disagreements between the U.S. and Israel, emphasizing the importance of addressing differences privately to prevent exploitation by mutual adversaries.
Protests in Israel
Protests within Israel have grown, with activists expressing frustration and demanding action from the government. Mr. Oren cautioned against portraying the protests as representative of widespread public sentiment.
He noted the focus on freeing hostages in anti-Netanyahu protests, clarifying that concerns are not directed solely at the Gaza war effort.
Mr. Netanyahu and his allies aim to secure the release of hostages and defeat Hamas, leading to debates on the balance between these objectives.
The former ambassador highlighted the complexities of negotiating with Hamas and the risks involved in achieving a cease-fire without compromising on Israel’s goals.
Hostage Negotiations
The Netanyahu government faces challenges in negotiating with Hamas over the hostages’ release, with differing demands complicating the process.
While Israel is open to temporary cease-fires for hostage releases, it rejects unconditional permanent cease-fires that may benefit Hamas and undermine Israeli objectives.
Mr. Oren emphasized the necessity of maintaining Israel’s goals in any negotiations with Hamas, even amidst the risks and challenges involved in the process.
