A tragic terrorist attack took place in Jerusalem on Monday morning, claiming the lives of six innocent people at a bus stop. The shooters, armed with machine guns, injured six others, two of whom are currently in critical condition. Notably, two ultra-Orthodox Israelis, from communities that often face scrutiny for their status, managed to kill the assailants.
On July 24, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that the UN General Assembly would direct France’s representatives to vote later this month on recognizing Palestinian statehood in New York. If Macron possesses any courage, it would be fitting for him to participate in the vote personally, maybe for the notoriety it brings—but perhaps, he should spare others from dealing with that burden.
Critics argue that the Macron Declaration in July effectively marked Hamas’ last opportunity to negotiate with Israeli hostages. Some point to Macron’s plummeting approval ratings in France, the looming collapse of another government linked to him, and suggest his actions stemmed from political desperation at home. It’s worth noting that support for Israel among the French is dwindling. Many of the Jewish population in France were victims during the Nazi era, assisted by the Vichy government, contributing to the current rise of anti-Israel sentiment and anti-Semitic extremism.
Regardless of Macron’s motivations and the implications of his grand pronouncements, a Palestinian “nation” appears unlikely in the near future.
The events of Monday evoke memories of the tragic massacre of October 7. Extremists, driven by the worst forms of Islamic radicalism, shouldn’t be allowed a “safe haven” to operate. With both the West Bank and Gaza suffering, and amid the two Intifadas, many Israelis have suffered at the hands of Hamas. Achieving stability and peaceful coexistence seems crucial amid the ongoing violent aspirations fueled by the likes of those in Tehran.
Perhaps one day, things might change. Many Palestinians have spoken out against Hamas’ extremism and corruption within their authorities. However, they seem powerless to effect change, and those in positions of influence haven’t condemned the violence of recent days.
Amit Segal, a respected Israeli journalist, shared the names and ages of the victims from Monday’s tragedy:
- Sarah (Sarita) Mendelsson, 60
- Rabbi Levi Yitzhak Pash
- Yakov Pinto, 25
- Rabbi Mordechai Shteintzag, 79
- Israeli Mensah, 28
- Rabbi Yosef David, 43
Segal’s effort reminds us that these individuals were not just statistics, but real lives—mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters.
Israel has a legitimate historical claim to sovereignty, one that’s difficult to dispute. Similarly, Israel has made consistent attempts to foster peace with its neighbors, including the Palestinians.
However, there will be no Palestinian state until Macron and similar figures “declare” it, despite the evident ambition among some factions to eliminate Israel.
These ambitions have been evident throughout Israel’s modern history, especially following events like the Hebron Pogrom in 1929 when Britain was managing the land after the Ottoman Empire’s collapse.
Macron appears to be a struggling president in a divided country. His failures should be disregarded by Israelis and by any nations striving for true peace, devoid of the fear experienced during such violent attacks. Actions like his may inadvertently hinder progress by fostering discussions that lead not to resolution, but to more violence.
Despite the challenges posed by individuals like Macron, Israel’s resilience remains profound. With the weight of sadness on its shoulders, it continues to be a formidable nation, a reality which should be acknowledged by allies, including the U.S.
