Rabbi's blog from February bulletin

From the Rabbi’s Study

          Rabbi Samuel Kieffer

      

The following was received on line as a thought-provoking response to the criticism launched at Israel during and after the war in Gaza of a year ago, coupled with the incredible response on the part of Israel to the recent earthquake and relief effort in Haiti.

             

Israel's Disproportionate Response

 

Many countries and world leaders have accused Israel of responding disproportionately to aggression from Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.  However, it is time that the world press and media speak of another disproportionate response from Israel.

 

The terrible disastrous earthquake in Haiti has generated responses from many nations.  The US has sent supplies and personnel; Britain sent 64 firemen and 8 volunteers; France sent troops for Search and Rescue.  Many large and wealthy nations of the world sent money.  The Arab and Moslem world--nothing.

 

Israel, a nation of 7.5 million people has sent a team of 220 people that include medical personnel and will establish the largest field hospital in Haiti, treating up to 5000 people a day, an experienced Search and Rescue team and medical supplies.  As in previous earthquake disasters, such as in India, in 2001, and in Turkey, in the bombings in Kenya, Israel has been one of the most generous givers of aid and assistance.

 

Judge Goldstone, where are you now? Eating your heart out and hanging your head in shame, I hope.

 

The favorite occupation in the UN is Israel-bashing.  More resolutions have been passed condemning Israel than all the so-called democratic nations such as Sudan, China, Russia, and others for their crimes against their minorities.  I think it is time that the world should know about Israel's disproportionate response.