B’nai B’rith International Supports Israel’s Defensive Move

B’nai B’rith International Supports Israel’s Defensive Move

(Washington, D.C., December 28, 2008)—Israel’s counterterrorism strike against the ruthless terrorist group Hamas in the Gaza Strip on December 27 was a just response to an untenable situation. The counterterrorism strikes against Hamas headquarters in the Gaza Strip began even as the terrorist group continued to launch rockets into Israel – since December 19, Hamas has fired more than 250 rockets and mortars at Israeli civilians.

“It is the right of every nation to defend its citizens,” said B’nai B’rith International Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin. “For years, Israelis have been subjected to Hamas’ wanton disregard for human lives.”

Hamas has continuously chosen violence instead of peace for the Palestinian people. Hamas terrorists have long used the region as a staging ground for attacks against Israel – using civilians as human shields for terrorists to hide behind. In fact, Hamas stepped up its attacks against Israel after Israel’s voluntary withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 – squandering an opportunity for the region to govern itself as a civil society.

“Israel has shown tremendous forbearance. It is now time for Israel to defend herself from terrorism,” B’nai B’rith International President Moishe Smith said. “No other nation on earth would be expected to endure attack after attack against its citizens. The escalating violence in the region is cause for great concern. And we hope the international community will stand with Israel as she defends her people.”

Celebrating B’nai B’rith International’s 165 years and Israel’s 60 years in 2008.

B’nai B’rith International, the Global Voice of the Jewish Community, is the oldest and most widely known Jewish humanitarian, human rights, and advocacy organization. Since 1843, BBI has worked for Jewish unity, security, continuity, and tolerance. Visit www.bnaibrith.org