We are all very aware of what is happening in Ukraine (and reminded by the Parish Councils decision to fly the Ukraine flag on most days of the year). However, I also believe we should remember the plight of Israel, and fly their flag on October 7th (as a reminder of the Hamas atrocities).
On October 7, Hamas terrorists waged the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust — slaughtering babies, raping women, burning whole families alive, and taking hundreds of innocent civilians hostage. Since October 7, more than 1,200 Israelis have been killed. Terrorists are still holding over 100 men, women, and children in captivity.
Consequently, Israel is now fighting terrorists supported by Iran on many fronts, Yemen (Houthi), Gazza (Hamas) and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Plus in very recent days by Iran themselves when 180 rockets were launched into Israel. Israel, is an ally in this region and we should be supporting them after October 7th to defend themselves.
However, I know we all wish for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of civilian life on all sides.
I think we ought to remember, that this is another part of the world heavily influenced by the British prior to 1948. This is what the History Channel says:
On May 14, 1948, in Tel Aviv, Jewish Agency Chairman David Ben-Gurion proclaims the State of Israel, establishing the first Jewish state in 2,000 years. Ben-Gurion became Israel’s first premier.
In the distance, the rumble of guns could be heard from fighting that broke out between Jews and Arabs immediately following the British army withdrawal earlier that day. Egypt launched an air assault against Israel that evening. Despite a blackout in Tel Aviv—and the expected Arab invasion—Jews celebrated the birth of their new nation, especially after word was received that the United States had recognized the Jewish state. At midnight, the State of Israel officially came into being upon termination of the British mandate in Palestine.
NB: Worth searching Youtube or Google for background on this ever changing conflict.
