The Art of the Strike: Behind the Scenes of a Daring Weekend

We entered Shabbat with unease in our hearts. The conversation at every meal, in every synagogue, across tables and generations kept returning to one question: What is Trump waiting for? After weeks of escalating tension, non-stop air raid sirens, warnings of Iranian threats, and the sense that something major was about to erupt, Israelis were left wondering if America would step up or stay on the sidelines.

All throughout Shabbat, I heard the same question again and again. My answer remained unchanged. President Trump is the President of the United States, not of Israel. His priorities are broader, and his calculations must take into account a far wider range of interests. But just like the hidden hand in the Purim story, where Esther invited Haman to a quiet, calculated meal rather than confront him directly, diplomacy can sometimes mask a deeper plan. What may seem like inaction on the surface can actually be the setup for something far greater behind the scenes.

And then came Saturday night.

In a bold and decisive operation, the United States sent stealth bombers into Iranian territory. Their target was Iran’s nuclear facilities. The bombs dropped were the most powerful ever used in such a mission, sending a loud and unmistakable message. Did the strike eliminate Iran’s nuclear ambitions? Certainly not. But it disrupted them and set back their timeline. More importantly, it signaled that the world will not tolerate a nuclear Iran.

This act did not bring immediate peace. In fact, it ushered in a more dangerous and uncertain chapter. Retaliation is expected. Flights have been canceled. Plans are on hold. We sit bracing for the next barrage of missiles. The fear of what comes next is very real.

Still, paradoxically, this strike may have bought us time. It may have changed the course of this conflict in ways we do not yet understand. It may have removed the head of a regime pushing its proxies across the region into chaos. Without central direction, those forces may gradually lose strength and purpose.

We are not at the end. We are very much in the middle. After more than two years of missiles and mobilizations, we know to expect more. But we must also hold on to our faith. Just like in the story of Purim, when everything seemed out of control, there was a greater plan unfolding. We may not see it clearly now, but we must believe it is there.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.