The October 7th Attack
I never imagined I’d witness such horror firsthand. On October 7th, 2023, the world as I knew it shattered. As a resident of a kibbutz near the Gaza border, I watched in disbelief as civilians from Gaza poured across the border, participating in unthinkable acts of violence.
The scenes that unfolded before my eyes still haunt me. Families I once considered neighbors engaged in killing, looting, and even worse atrocities. The line between civilian and combatant blurred in the most horrifying way possible.
Hostage Crisis
In the days that followed, reports emerged of Gazan families harboring kidnapped Israelis. The thought of innocent people held captive in homes, and treated like animals, makes my blood run cold. Rumors swirled that Hamas paid these families to keep hostages in inhumane conditions, using them as human shields in densely populated areas.
International Law Violations
As I grappled with the trauma of what I’d witnessed, I began to understand the gravity of these actions in terms of international law. The targeting of civilians, use of human shields, and taking of hostages are all clear violations of the Geneva Conventions and other international agreements.
The June 8th Rescue
Hope flickered on June 8th when Israeli forces conducted a daring rescue mission, freeing four hostages from a crowded refugee camp. While I rejoiced for those reunited with their families, the operation exposed the ruthlessness of Hamas’s tactics.
Call for Action
The events I’ve witnessed and the stories I’ve heard demand action. These violations of international law must be condemned by the global community. I add my voice to the growing chorus calling for the unconditional release of all Israeli hostages. They must be brought home.
Take Action NOW.
A Personal Reflection
The cycle of violence and disregard for international law must end. My hope is that by sharing this account, more people will understand the human cost of this conflict and join the call for peace, justice, and adherence to the rules that govern warfare. Only then can we hope to build a future where no one has to endure what I’ve witnessed?
