Israel a ‘beacon of freedom, hope and progress’

Once again, Mr. Gulamhusein Abba has attempted to slander America’s only reliable ally in the entire Middle East, and that is the State of Israel. (Letter to the Editor: “A condemnable crime,” May 8) His words of sympathy for the Poway shooting are appreciated by all who condemn violence, and I am heartened by any and all who condemn anti-Semitism. But I am also saddened that he cannot condemn the terroristic act of firing 700 rockets into Israel from Gaza this past week.

Friday, the l0th of May, the world celebrated 71 years of independence. In just seven decades, the Jewish state has achieved what seemed impossible. Israeli innovation, creativity and vision have made deserts bloom and helped fulfill the ancient call to be a light unto the nations.

Today, Israel is a beacon of freedom, hope and progress. A nation of laws, free elections and vigorous debate. A nation that is home to a diverse people of all backgrounds and faiths, and that stands strong in the face of adversity. We are proud of all that this tiny nation has accomplished, but 71 years is just the beginning. The story of Israel is still being written.

Mr. Abba will continue to condemn the tiny State of Israel, and that is his choice. But, in the words of the Medieval philosopher, Ibn Ezra, who lived within a Muslim community that interacted with its Jewish minority, once said, “those who are capable of understanding, understand.”

As a proud American Zionist, my hopes and prayers are only for peace in our beloved Israel and the entire world.

Rabbi Jon Haddon Danbury