Rabbis call for recapturing Gaza territory
In a recent development, a group of senior Religious Zionist rabbis in Israel have expressed a pro-occupation stance regarding Gaza, calling for the full and long-term occupation of the region. This hardline position, favouring continued Jewish settlement or control, comes amidst international controversy.
The letter, signed by prominent rabbis such as Rabbi Dov Lior, Rabbi Elyakim Levanon, and Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, among others, urges a change in the political outlook towards Gaza. They suggest beginning the settlement of the northern perimeter area and instructing the IDF to fully conquer all of Gaza.
The letter does not mention any negotiations or diplomatic solutions to the conflict. Instead, it emphasizes the need for Israel to achieve a clear victory, stating that so long as Hamas or any hostile force remains on Israel's borders, the country has no real deterrence. The rabbis also express concern about Israel repeatedly capturing and giving back lands to the enemy.
This stance contrasts with that of Jewish religious leaders from the United States and elsewhere, who have publicly called for Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza and denounced the use of starvation as a weapon of war. These leaders express concern about the humanitarian consequences of Israeli policies without opposing Israel's fight against Hamas.
Within Israel, ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) rabbis are focusing more on domestic issues such as opposition to conscription into the Israeli army. They are urging religious disobedience and protests against government efforts that affect their communities, rather than direct statements on Gaza's occupation or settlements.
In summary, senior Religious Zionist rabbis in Israel are pressing for continuing occupation and control in Gaza, while many other rabbis are emphasizing humanitarian issues and more cautious approaches regarding Gaza’s civilian population. The rabbis did not specify a particular timeline for the proposed changes in political outlook and military actions.
The letter from the Religious Zionist rabbis advocates for a change in Israel's political stance towards Gaza, recommending the acquisition of more territory and military action. Meanwhile, Jewish leaders from the United States and beyond advocate for humanitarian aid to be permitted into Gaza, expressing concern about the effects of Israeli policies on civilians.
