We must stand with Israel

In the aftermath of the heinous attacks on Israel orchestrated by the Iran-backed terrorist organization, Hamas, it is crucial to acknowledge Israel’s right to defend itself against a repressive regime. Over the past weekend, Israel witnessed unimaginable horrors and faced multiple attempted infiltrations. Soldiers were brutally attacked, entire families were tragically slaughtered in their homes, and parents lost their lives while shielding their infants from these unspeakable atrocities. The scenes were nothing short of abject horror, and as the lone democracy in the Middle East, we must support them in their fight for freedom.

There has been a significant amount of misinformation surrounding this assault, so we must look at the facts. To date, over 1,000 Israelis and 11 Americans have been confirmed killed, with more than 2,800 wounded. Additionally, Hamas has taken at least 150 hostages in Gaza. Hamas wasn’t solely targeting soldiers; they deliberately hunted down women, children, and families in their relentless pursuit to sow chaos. These actions are despicable and must be deemed as such.

As a staunch supporter of Israel, I was a primary co-sponsor for the “Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists” resolution. This resolution formally denounces Hamas’ brutal war against Israel, reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, and re-confirms the United States’ commitment to Israel’s safety and security.

Do not be fooled — this was not the work of a rogue group of individuals acting without orders.

It was a meticulously planned and premeditated attack on Israel, strategically timed on the anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. The United States must respond decisively and swiftly with appropriate humanitarian and military aid — mere condemnation won’t suffice. There exists no excuse or rationale that can validate this blatant act of terrorism intended to destroy Israel.

This marked one of the deadliest days in their nation’s history, akin to the scale of casualties seen on 9/11. It was a deliberate and calculated attack designed to maximize civilian casualties, which further underscores the need for United States intervention. In Israel’s fight to defend itself, and its citizens, we have an obligation to stand with them.

As our strongest ally in the Middle East, we must stand with Israel unequivocally and fiercely condemn Hamas. The Iranian-backed terror cell must be neutralized — for the sake of national security and democracy.

Israel’s struggle for freedom has persisted for generations, and its aggressors will not be satisfied until the nation is eradicated, countless more civilians are murdered, and the Jewish population is extinguished. It is imperative that this conflict concludes with an Israeli victory, and the United States should aid them in securing this outcome.

Our nation has consistently upheld the values of democracy and stood firmly against terrorism, and this situation is no exception. We must extend our prayers for the safety of Israeli citizens and unite our efforts to prevent a repeat of such an attack on their soil.