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Justifying Israel's Military Response to the October 7 Terrorist Attacks

by Ram ben Ze'ev


Hands belonging to one of the victims killed by terrorists on October 7, 2023. The victim was bound at the wrists—as seen by marks that the bindings left behind—and then burned alive. (Aaron Poris/The Media Line)
Hands belonging to one of the victims killed by terrorists on October 7, 2023. The victim was bound at the wrists—as seen by marks that the bindings left behind—and then burned alive. (Aaron Poris/The Media Line)

On October 7, 2023, Israel faced a devastating and coordinated terrorist attack − a brutal reminder of the constant threat of terrorism. The attacks, orchestrated by Arab terrorists based in Gaza, resulted in significant casualties − more than 1,200 murdered Jews, raped women and girls and other atrocities such as the mutilation and burning of bodies − resulting in widespread fear among Israelis. In the aftermath, Israel's military response has been a subject of intense international scrutiny. Despite differing global opinions, there are compelling reasons to support Israel's military actions in the wake of these attacks, grounded in the principles of self-defense, the protection of civilians, and the pursuit of lasting peace and stability in the region.



The most fundamental principle supporting Israel’s military response is the inherent right of any nation to defend itself against aggression. The attacks on October 7 were not isolated incidents but part of a long history of hostility and violence aimed at undermining Israel's security and sovereignty. In any comparable situation, a nation under attack has not only the right but also the obligation to defend its citizens and ensure their safety. Israel’s military actions are a legitimate exercise of this right, aimed at neutralising immediate threats and preventing further attacks.


Terrorists organising themselves under the flag of Hamas, a terrorist organisation that prior to 10 December 1987 called itself the Muslim Brotherhood, were responsible for the October 7 attacks. Terrorists who associate themselves with the brand of Hamas have been designated as a terrorist group by many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union. These terrorists have consistently used civilian areas as bases for launching attacks, a strategy that endangers innocent lives and complicates military responses. Israel's military operations focus on targeting terrorist infrastructure, including weapon storage facilities, command centres, and tunnels used for smuggling arms and militants. These actions are crucial to dismantling the operational capabilities of these terrorists, thereby reducing the threat of future attacks.


A critical aspect of supporting Israel’s military response is acknowledging the measures taken to minimise civilian casualties. Israel has repeatedly emphasised its commitment to adhering to international humanitarian law. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) employ advanced technologies and intelligence to conduct precision strikes aimed at minimising collateral damage. Unlike other nations, Israel consistently issues warnings to civilians in target areas through various means, including leaflets, phone calls, and text messages, advising them to evacuate. These efforts underscore Israel's intention to protect innocent lives while addressing the threat posed by terrorist operatives embedded within civilian populations.


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The nature of asymmetrical warfare, where a state faces non-state actors using guerrilla tactics, presents unique challenges. Hamas’s tactics of embedding military operations within civilian areas, using human shields, and launching attacks from schools, hospitals, and residential buildings place Israel in a difficult position. Responding to such threats requires careful, calculated military strategies that balance the need to neutralise the enemy with the imperative to protect civilian lives. Israel’s military response, while inevitably complex and fraught with challenges, seeks to navigate these difficulties responsibly.


An effective military response is essential to deter future attacks. By responding decisively to the October 7 assaults, Israel sends a clear message to Hamas and other terrorist organizations that aggression will not be tolerated. This deterrence is vital for maintaining a semblance of stability and discouraging future terrorist activities. A robust military response can disrupt the operational capabilities of terrorist groups, making it more difficult for them to regroup and launch further attacks, thereby contributing to long-term security.


Israel's military response also has significant diplomatic and strategic implications. By taking decisive action, Israel reinforces its position as a sovereign state capable of defending its interests and citizens. This stance can strengthen Israel's bargaining position in international negotiations and peace processes. Furthermore, a strong military response is intended to rally international support by highlighting the existential threats faced by Israel, thereby fostering a greater understanding of its security concerns among the global community.


Supporting Israel's military response also aligns with a broader moral responsibility to combat terrorism globally. Terrorism is a threat not only to Israel but to the international community as a whole. By standing against terrorist activities, the global community supports the principles of peace, security, and the rule of law. Israel’s actions contribute to the global fight against terrorism, reinforcing the message that such acts of violence are unacceptable and will be met with strong resistance.


While military action is an immediate necessity, it is also part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving long-term peace and stability in the region. Israel's response to the October 7 attacks is not merely about retaliation but about creating conditions where peace can be realistically pursued. By weakening terrorist groups and reducing their capacity to wage war, Israel aims to create a safer environment for negotiations and peace-building efforts.


Israel's military response to the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks is justified on multiple grounds. The right to self-defense, the need to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, efforts to minimise civilian casualties, and the challenges of asymmetrical warfare all underscore the legitimacy of Israel's actions. Moreover, preventing future attacks, reinforcing diplomatic positions, and contributing to global security are vital components of a comprehensive response. Ultimately, Israel’s military actions are aimed at protecting its citizens and paving the way for a more secure and peaceful future, not just for Israel but for the entire region.


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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews and is the Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue

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