Dear editor:
In the best of all possible worlds, all disputes would be settled via negotiations. (“J Street and New Jewish Narrative React Following Attack on Iran” BJN 6/22/2025) But we do not live in the best of all possible worlds. Palestinians boast of their right to use violence to resist the Occupation while refusing to negotiate on multiple Israeli and American proposals for the establishment of a Palestinian state co-existing, peacefully, with Israel. And Iran repeatedly violated the JCPOA, insisting that it was pursuing nuclear development for peaceful purposes, while denying IAEA inspectors access to its sites, threatening to wipe Israel off the map, and declaring that one bomb would be sufficient to do the job. In addition, when the Biden administration lifted sanctions on Iran, Iran didn’t use the funding for the benefit of the Iranian people. Rather, Iran sent the money to its terrorist proxies (Hamas. Hezbollah, and the Houhtis), who proceeded to attack Israel and other Western democracies.
Israel has wisely followed the Talmudic doctrine: If someone is coming to kill you, rise up and strike first. The US attack on Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites came only after Israel had significantly weakened Hezbollah (allowing for a functioning government to be re-established in Lebanon) and also eliminated Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists in addition to destroying Iranian missiles and missile launchers. In disagreement with J Street and New Jewish Narrative, Prime Minister Netanyahu has praised President Trump’s friendship and actions. There are still times when Israelis need to get to their shelters and safe rooms. Nonetheless, most Israelis agree with the Jerusalem Post headline:
Israelis more safe than ever due to Iran’s weakened status | The Jerusalem Post
Toby F. Block
Atlanta, GA
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