Hamas Laughs as Israel Divides—Unite Now!

In December 2022, Benjamin Netanyahu was elected as Prime Minister in a democratic election. The people of Israel had spoken. Yet, in January 2023, mass protests began—every Saturday evening, without fail. Even if, just two hours prior, a terror attack had targeted Israeli citizens, even children, the protesters still found it appropriate to wave Palestinian flags in Rabin Square—now Hostage Square.

I understand that when you are in the eye of the storm, you may be oblivious to the chaos around you. But we, living outside of Israel, could see what was happening. All attention was drawn to the increasingly violent demonstrations of the minority, week after week.

The silent majority always remains silent.

I saw it online. I tried to reach out to the protesters through social media. Even then, my message was: People of Israel, don’t you see what you are doing? Do you really NOT see it?

Hamas leadership viewed the protests against Israel’s judicial reform in 2023 as a sign of internal division and weakness. They believed that these deep political and social rifts could be exploited to their advantage. Hamas officials publicly expressed that these divisions might undermine Israel’s resilience, which they saw as beneficial to their broader strategic goals.

Sinwar—the devil may have his soul—was laughing, silently growing stronger, fortifying his terror groups, and preparing to attack Israel. I saw it coming, and yes, I was horrified when Hamas finally felt powerful enough—when Israel was weakened from within by internal strife—and launched their devastating attack on the Jewish state.

And yet, immediately after October 7th, I knew that the same protesters would blame it all on Netanyahu and continue their demonstrations. The focus may have shifted to the hostages, but the protests persist.

The Dilemma:  Do we negotiate with terrorists?

Don’t get me wrong. The hostage situation is dreadful, devastating. With every release, I felt joy—but also deep conflict. Haven’t we all learned that you can never negotiate with terrorists? Are terrorists trustworthy? No, they are not.

The Israeli spirit and culture dictate that no one is left behind. But negotiating now means the certain death of tens of thousands of Israelis in the future when these terrorists strike again. It is not a question of if—but when.

I have no answer to this horrific ethical dilemma, and I am grateful I am not the Prime Minister of Israel. Netanyahu—would you want to be in his place? Do you truly believe that any other leader, at this moment, would do better? That the entire nation would suddenly unite under someone else?

This is a terrible situation. You may agree with Netanyahu, or you may disagree. But PLEASE, PLEASE, Israelis—do not jeopardize Israel’s safety. Do not destroy her from within. After the war, you will have plenty of time to protest, to shout in the streets. But right now, you are creating yet another front that Israel must fight.

This is not the right time. This is not the right place.

I have been an advocate for Israel since I returned to the Netherlands in 1980 after two years in the Middle East. When I came back, I saw how rapidly anti-Israel sentiment was growing, and I couldn’t stand it—I just couldn’t. After the terror attack on Har Nof, Jerusalem, I founded Time to Stand Up for Israel, which began as a grassroots movement and is now a registered NGO. Since 2014, I have dedicated my life—24/7—to Israel.

But honestly? I am on the verge of giving up.

Why should I continue when Israel is being destroyed from within? When it is losing its only weapon in a world of darkness—the light of unity?

I just bring up a deep and heartfelt concern. Israel has faced existential threats throughout its history, and internal unity has always been a key factor in its resilience. Creating another front—whether external or internal—certainly risks national security, especially in such a volatile region. At the same time, democracy thrives on debate and the ability to vote for change when needed. Stability and security must be balanced with the need for healthy discourse and political evolution. The challenge is ensuring that any push for change strengthens, rather than weakens, the country’s core. I am advocating for a responsible and thoughtful approach to political disagreements—one that doesn’t endanger the nation as a whole.

So, unite now, fight later against your government

I want to address this message to you: Pick your battles wisely—at the right time, against the right people.

Israel is my priority—forever. What is yours?

There will be time to fight against the government. There will be time after the war. But committing national suicide now? That is the worst thing Israelis can do.

Am Yisrael Chai.