परित्राणाय साधूनां विनाशाय च दुष्कृताम्।
धर्मसंस्थापनार्थाय सम्भवामि युगे युगे।।
श्रीमद् भगवद्गीता, 4.8
In a thought-provoking lecture organized by Constitution Club, Mr. Kobbi Shoshani, the Consulate General of Israel for Midwest India, addressed the pressing issue of the "Rise of Terrorism in Israel." The event, held at MNLU, Mumbai on November 7, 2023, provided a platform for an insightful discourse on the challenges posed by terrorist organizations, focusing on the ongoing activities of Hamas.
Mr. Shoshani, drawing parallels between the birth years of India and Israel, as India was born in 1947 and Israel born in 1948, India called it the “End of British Raj", we called it the "British Mandate”, he highlighted the shared experiences of both nations in dealing with terrorism since their inception. He emphasized the common adversary in the form of disruptive elements, with Pakistan serving a similar role for India as Hamas, Egypt, and Lebanon do for Israel.
The lecture unfolded with a grim depiction of the October 7 disaster in Israel caused by Hamas terrorists. Through a chilling video clip, attendees witnessed a party turning into a scene of chaos and horror, with civilians falling victim to bullets, bombs, and missiles. The perpetrators, under the guise of slogans, engaged in heinous acts such as kidnapping, murder, and beheading, celebrating their atrocities with chants of "Allah hu Akbar."
Mr. Shoshani emphasized the profound connections between India and Israel, highlighting the shared emphasis on family values and the strong democratic foundations both nations uphold. In both cultures, the significance of close-knit relationships and the respect for democratic principles form a common thread. Mr. Shoshani underscored the mutual commitment to humanity that binds these nations together, fostering a robust partnership built on shared values and a deep understanding of the importance of fostering strong, democratic societies.
Mr. Shoshani went on to expose the manipulative tactics employed by terrorist groups, showcasing how they use civilians as shields and establish headquarters in hospitals, distorting the reality on the ground. He underlined the importance of family values as a priority for both India and Israel, irrespective of community or country.
The Consulate General expressed his deep concern over the unprecedented aggression and terror tactics employed, vowing that Israel would eradicate every terror group one by one. His unwavering optimism and determination echoed in his declaration, "We will win because we are right; we will win because we want to live in peace without any fear; we will win because they came to war by choice."
Following the keynote address, an engaging Q&A session allowed students to delve into various aspects, from media coverage to the role of self-defense in Israel's actions. Mr. Kobbi emphasized the need to question fake news and media propaganda, shedding light on Israel's often misrepresented image as the aggressor. He presented evidence supporting Israel's stance, portraying instances where self-defense was the only viable response to Hamas attacks.
In conclusion, the "Rise of Terrorism in Israel" lecture served as a crucial platform to debunk misconceptions, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by Israel and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. It illuminated the role of manipulated information in shaping global perceptions, marking a significant step towards fostering a more accurate understanding of the complex realities of the region.
It marked a significant step toward fostering a more accurate understanding of the multifaceted realities of the situation. As attendees left the hall, they carried with them not just the shocking visuals and compelling narratives but a deeper comprehension of the intricate dance between terrorism, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of peace in the heart of Israel. The Constitution Club's initiative had successfully opened a window into the shadows, inviting thoughtful reflection and a nuanced understanding of a complex geopolitical landscape.
We can see across the country that Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, many Christians, and some Muslims of Bharat are overwhelmingly supporting Israel in this fight to the finish against Hamas expecting Hamas will become extinct and sane Palestinians will take over. India and Israel share a history of strong diplomatic ties, notably demonstrated during the Kargil War in 1999. Israel’s crucial support in providing UAVs for tracking Pakistani troop movements played a pivotal role in India’s victory. Today, as the world grapples with ongoing terrorism, there’s a collective call for global unity. It’s hoped that nations will join forces to combat terrorism, with a particular prayer for Israel’s success in the fight against terror groups. The aspiration is for Israel to set an example, showcasing the triumph of peace over extremist ideologies and paving the way for a safer world.