Since October 7, 2023, I have been deeply immersed in the unfolding conflict between Israel and Hamas. The impact on Israelis, Jewish communities, and global supporters—including myself—has been profound and far-reaching. As someone who prefers to observe and reflect before responding, this approach has helped me navigate the complexities of the past five months without becoming overwhelmed. After much reflection and firsthand experiences, I am ready to share my thoughts and insights.

Shifting Focus: The Personal Impact

The crisis has demanded my full attention. My usual projects have been set aside as I immerse myself in monitoring media and engaging with newsgroups. With time, I’ve become more adept at navigating social media, honing my ability to spot biases. Just as scientists are mindful of their biases in research, we, too, must recognize how media can be shaped by the perspectives of its reporters or owners. This awareness is essential for anyone seeking to understand the whole picture, especially in a polarized conflict.

The Influence of Media: A Call for Nuanced Consumption

Today’s media landscape is fraught with biases, and understanding these biases is crucial. Anthropologist and historian Francisco Gil-White¹ has extensively studied how media shapes perceptions and can serve as a powerful tool for manipulation. For example, he points to the antisemitic propaganda of Der Stürmer during Nazi Germany, which distorted reality to incite hatred. Julius Streicher’s portrayal of Jews as greedy, even when they contributed positively, exemplifies how narratives can be twisted to promote an agenda. This is a stark reminder that we must critically assess whether media accurately reflects reality or perpetuates harmful biases.²

In times of conflict, it’s crucial to approach the news with a discerning eye. Bias often becomes apparent when a media outlet consistently highlights one side of the story. For instance, focusing exclusively on pro-Palestinian viewpoints without addressing Israeli perspectives can skew our understanding. Even trusted sources like CBC News have faced criticism for such biases, as noted by organizations like Honest Reporting. Awareness of these biases empowers us to consume media more critically and responsibly.

Witnessing Resilience: The October 7 Attack and Beyond

The attack on October 7 was a severe blow to many people’s confidence in Israel’s defence systems. The breach along the Gaza border exposed vulnerabilities, even in a well-prepared nation. However, the response from ordinary Israelis—evacuating over 200,000 families and facing simultaneous threats from Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Syria—demonstrated extraordinary courage and solidarity.

During this period, I was in Israel and witnessed firsthand the incredible resilience of the Jewish community. From October 12 to January 4, 2024, I observed global Jewish support, culminating in a powerful demonstration on November 14, when 200,000 people, including myself, gathered at the Washington, D.C. Mall to denounce violence and antisemitism while showing unwavering support for Israel.

Bearing Witness: The Montreal Federation Mission to Israel

From January 4 to 19, I travelled to Israel with the Montreal Federation Mission of Witness to Israel. One of the most poignant moments of the trip was our visit to the kibbutz of Nir Oz, where we heard firsthand accounts from its residents. At Sderot City Hall, we watched footage of the October 7 attack, capturing the harrowing invasion of Main Street and learning about a tragic ambush that left a large family orphaned.

Amidst the horrors, extraordinary kindness emerged. We met officials like the charismatic mayor of Beer Sheva, who tirelessly oversees the welfare of evacuated citizens. We also observed new housing developments designed to provide displaced families a semblance of normalcy. At places like Siroka Hospital and Ben Gurion University, groundbreaking research and innovative solutions were being developed to address the needs of displaced families, including 3D printing for reconstructive surgery and cutting-edge apps.

Our rabbis counsel us to bolster our spiritual practices during adversity—embracing acts of kindness, prayer, reciting psalms, and active participation in communal gatherings. These activities offer potent support in challenging times.

The Hostages and Ongoing Advocacy

The plight of the hostages remains a poignant concern. Over 200 individuals were taken captive by Hamas, with more than 100 still enduring their ordeal. In Tel Aviv, a digital clock serves as a constant reminder of the days since their abduction—now exceeding 150 days. The families of the hostages have found refuge at an office building dedicated to their needs, where they come together to advocate for their loved ones.

In Montreal, demonstrations advocating for the release of hostages have unfolded in various locations, from the offices of the Red Cross to City Hall and Place des Arts. These collective efforts highlight the importance of standing together, especially in adversity.

Honouring Fallen Soldiers and Embracing Resilience

The frequent announcements of young soldiers fallen in battle weigh heavily on all of us. Each loss is a profound reminder of their ultimate sacrifice. The IDF has established a website to honour and memorialize fallen soldiers, providing a place to pay our respects and keep their memories alive.

Reflecting on a journey I took with my Montreal synagogue to Jewish sites in Poland last summer, I was reminded of our ancestors’ enduring resilience. Seeing the remnants of concentration camps and learning about their contributions to the founding of Israel filled me with pride and hope. This historical perspective reaffirms my belief that we will emerge from this crisis more vital than ever. This resilience inspires hope and keeps us moving forward, even in adversity.

A Legacy of Strength

My Jewish heritage provides me with the strength to face these difficult times. It reaffirms my belief that, as we have throughout history, we will overcome adversity through our collective determination and unity. The current challenges only reinforce our commitment to standing together, advocating for justice, and fostering peace.

Footnote:

1. Gil-White, Francisco. “The Paradox of Antisemitic Thinking and the Influence of the Media in Perpetuating It.” YouTube, www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXXXXXX.
2. Der Stürmer: Nazi Antisemitic Weekly Newspaper. Edited by Julius Streicher, Der Stürmer, 1930-1945.