Photo by Taylor Brandon | Article by MAJ (RET) Montgomery J. Granger @mjgranger1
We cannot judge Iran’s attack on Israel with over 350 projectiles, from cruise missiles to drones, based on the results (99 percent of which were ineffective). We must judge our enemy’s intent rather than the results of an attack because if they had been successful we may not be able to retaliate in kind or at all. When your enemy wants to destroy you, and you stop them from destroying you, if you don’t strike back with overwhelming force you leave open the door of defeat. If you give them a second chance, it may be your last. Therefore, we must judge the attack based on its intent.
The intent was to destroy Israel and kill thousands of innocent people, irrespective of their ethnicity or religion. Israel is home to an international community of non-sectarians, Christians, Arabs, Muslims, et al. Israel has the unequivocal right to retaliate decisively against such aggression, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens while adhering to international norms and legal standards.
What Is Next for Israel?
Israel won’t project what they will do, but rest assured, they will do something. When they do this, of course, there will be a chance for escalation, but that will be tempered by cooler heads and the fact that Iran has few allies capable of doing anything significant in their aid.
Israel should be in the driver’s seat and all of her allies should be lining up to form a coalition bent on subduing Iran and its support of global terrorism. Unfortunately, one of Israel’s biggest supporters is also one of its biggest detractors: the United States, led by Joe Biden.
Biden and U.S. Senator, Chuck Schumer have meddled in Israeli internal affairs, by suggesting their Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu resign. Imagine if Bibi suggested as much of the U.S.? What would people say if Netanyahu suggested Joe Biden and Chuck Schumer step aside?
In any case, that’s not the point. Exacting revenge and justice for the attacks of October 7 should be the primary focus. “Never again,” must mean Hamas can never be allowed to exist, nor any group like it. And those who coddle and protect them need to be dealt with too. The world cannot tolerate co-dependent terrorists.
Israel must operate on the assumption that all hostages are dead. Only in this way can they properly deal with Hamas. If Hamas wants something for the release of live hostages, then they need to release them, otherwise they will face dire consequences.
The surrender of Hamas must be unconditional and immediate.
Anyone who calls themselves Israel’s friend must support this course of action or face being considered an enemy.
There are no fence sitters allowed. You are either with Israel, and their vision of victory, or you are with Hamas. And if you are with Hamas, beware! Your days are numbered in single digits.
NOTE: Major Granger is a three times mobilized retired Army Reservist, and author of “Saving Grace at Guantanamo Bay: A Memoir of a Citizen Warrior.” He is active on many social media platforms as @mjgranger1.