by Ram ben Ze'ev (Conservative Values)
In the convoluted landscape of conflict between Israel and its enemies, one principle should remain steadfast: no negotiation with Arab terrorists who hold Israeli hostages. The moral compass of any nation, especially one constantly besieged by threats, must prioritise the safety and dignity of its citizens. Yet, the tragic reality persists: Israeli lives are often held in the balance, pawns in a political game orchestrated by those who seek to instil fear and assert power through terror.
The abductions by Arab terrorists, during the atrocities of 7 October 2023, resulting in the taking of 253 innocent Israelis, serves as a stark reminder of the relentless threat faced by our nation. Families torn apart, communities plunged into despair, and a nation grappling with the agonising uncertainty of the fate of our loved ones—all at the hands of merciless perpetrators who exploit the vulnerability of human life for their own nefarious agendas.
The likelihood that many of those hostages are now dead is a grim reality that cannot be ignored. In the volatile landscape of conflict and hostage situations, time is often the enemy, with each passing day increasing the risk to the lives of those held captive. The lack of information, combined with the history of violence perpetrated by the Arab terrorists, only adds to a bleak outlook.
In the face of such atrocities, the temptation to engage in negotiations may arise, fuelled by the desperation to secure the release of hostages. However, succumbing to this temptation not only compromises the integrity of Israel’s stance against terrorism but also further emboldens terrorists to exploit the vulnerability of its citizens. Negotiation with terrorists not only legitimises their reprehensible actions but also incentivises future acts of violence, perpetuating a vicious cycle of terror and concession.
Furthermore, engaging in negotiations without the unconditional release of hostages and the return of the bodies of those already murdered sends a dangerous message—one that undermines the value of Israeli lives and emboldens terrorists to escalate their heinous acts, while the rape of women and girls held hostage represents a horrifying manifestation of the depths of human cruelty and the abuse of power. It is imperative that Israel remains resolute in its refusal to negotiate with those who show blatant disregard for human life.
Moreover, history bears witness to the futility of negotiating with Arab terrorists who have demonstrated a callous disregard for human life. Time and again, concessions have only served to embolden these terrorists, providing them with the resources and leverage to perpetuate their reign of terror. From the devastating attacks on Israeli civilians to the countless lives lost in the pursuit of appeasement, the painful lessons of the past compel us to stand firm against any form of negotiation with those who seek to inflict harm upon us.
The release of 1,027 Arab terrorists by Israel in exchange for Gilad Shalit in October 2011 stands as a stark reminder of the complexities and moral dilemmas inherent in negotiating with terrorists. While the return of a captured IDF soldier undoubtedly brought relief to his family and some segments of our nation, the repercussions of such exchanges reverberates far beyond the initial act of liberation. In the tragic case of the 7th of October 2023 attack, many of the terrorists released in the Shalit exchange were found to have participated, highlighting the inherent risks and moral ambiguities involved in trading prisoners for hostages. This grim reality underscores the need for nuanced and cautious approaches to negotiations, balancing the imperative to secure the release of captives with the imperative to prevent further bloodshed and ensure the safety of all citizens.
To negotiate under duress is to betray the fundamental principles of justice and morality upon which Israel stands. It is to concede defeat to the forces of darkness and relinquish the very essence of our humanity. The lives of Israeli hostages are not bargaining chips to be traded at the whim of terrorists; they are precious souls deserving of every effort to secure their safe return.
Moreover, to negotiate with terrorists is to dishonour the memory of those who have fallen victim to their senseless acts of violence. The families of the slain deserve closure and justice, not the hollow promises of appeasement that only serve to perpetuate the cycle of violence. By standing firm against negotiation until the bodies of those murdered are returned to their families, and all of the hostages released, Israel sends a powerful message of solidarity and resolve—a message that reaffirms its commitment to justice and the sanctity of human life.
Additionally, negotiation with terrorists undermines the credibility of Israel as a sovereign nation capable of upholding the rule of law and protecting its citizens. It diminishes the deterrent effect of law enforcement and military operations, sending a signal of weakness to those who seek to undermine the security and stability of our nation.
In the face of adversity, Israel must remain steadfast in its resolve to confront terrorism head-on, without compromising its principles or succumbing to the demands of those who seek to do it harm. This requires unwavering determination, solidarity among our citizens, and a clear-eyed understanding of the grave threat posed by Arab terrorism.
Ultimately, the refusal to negotiate with terrorists who hold Israeli hostages is not an act of callousness but one of moral clarity and unwavering resolve. It is a reaffirmation of Israel’s commitment to the sanctity of human life, the rule of law, and the pursuit of justice. It is a declaration to the world that terrorism will not be tolerated by Israel and by Jews, and that those who seek to perpetrate it will be held accountable for their actions.
The imperative to stand firm against negotiation with Arab terrorists who hold Israeli hostages should not merely be a matter of policy but it is a moral imperative. It is a reaffirmation of Israel’s commitment to the values of justice, security, and human dignity. Now, more than ever, Israel must remain resolute in the face of terror, refusing to yield to the demands of those who seek to undermine its security and stability. Only by standing united against terrorism can Israel ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens and uphold the principles upon which it was founded.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews and Executive Director of Hebrew SynagogueÂ