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Andy Blumenthal
Leadership With Heart

Hostages Will Return, but the War Endures

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As the IDF prepares for a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza, our hearts are filled with both hope and trepidation. We pray fervently for the safe return of every hostage, yet we cannot delude ourselves: while this particular battle may be drawing to a close, the war continues.

Even today, a chilling reminder arrived in the form of a stabbing attack at a Tel Aviv café. A 19-year-old terrorist from Tulkarm inflicted grievous wounds, a stark testament to the ever-present threat. Though the attacker was neutralized, we know all too well that he is but one of many. The planned release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners—many with blood on their hands, serving life sentences for heinous crimes—in exchange for our captive brothers and sisters casts a long shadow. These releases will only replenish the ranks of those who seek to harm the Jewish State.

This very intention is brazenly proclaimed by groups like Within Our Lifetime Palestine, who held a protest in New York City today, declaring, “Tthe struggle continues and the flood rises stronger,” and explicitly stating their goal of “liberation” [from the river to the sea] despite the ceasefire. There is no secret to Hamas’s strategy:

This ceasefire is merely a tactical pause, an opportunity to regroup, rearm, and renew their terror campaign against Israel.

Thus, the ceasefire is indeed bittersweet. We are overcome with joy at the prospect of reuniting with the released hostages, yet the cost is agonizingly high. The continued existence of Hamas and the release of dangerous terrorists—many certain to return to their violent ways—weigh heavily on our hearts.

Our rabbi’s words in synagogue today offered a poignant perspective. He reminded us of the blessing of Hatov V’HaMeitiv: “Blessed art thou, Lord our God, King of the universe, who is good and who does good.” We recite this blessing for positive events, even when aware of potential future repercussions, as with this ceasefire and hostage agreement. It is a testament to our faith, an expression of gratitude for the good we receive today, regardless of the uncertainties of tomorrow.

Strategically, Israel and the IDF cannot afford even a moment of complacency. The October 7th Hamas invasion, like the devastating surprise of the Yom Kippur War, stands as a horrific reminder of the consequences of disbelief and unpreparedness. These tragedies must never be repeated. Had Israel preempted in 1973 as it did in 1967, countless lives could have been spared. Had we invested sufficiently in the IDF and taken the necessary mental and physical precautions to prevent the October 7th attack, the devastating loss of life and the immense financial cost could have been avoided.

My father’s wisdom echoes in my ears: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” As the ceasefire takes hold and we embrace our returning hostages, let us commit ourselves with unwavering resolve to preventing our enemies from ever again gaining such a devastating advantage. Let us learn from the past and safeguard our future.

About the Author
Andy Blumenthal is a dynamic, award-winning leader who writes frequently about Jewish life, culture, and security. All opinions are his own.
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