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One year ago, on October 7, Israel was plunged into one of the darkest chapters in its history. A day that should have been unremarkable became a moment that redefined the future of our nation. The brutal wave of terror—rockets, massacres, and unfathomable devastation—shook us to our core. Families buried loved ones, communities mourned, and an entire nation stood in shock. But in the wake of unimaginable tragedy, a new truth emerged: Israel’s fight is not just for survival, but for a future that is stronger and more united than ever.
This anniversary marks a moment of reflection for the Jewish people. We stand at a crossroads—facing challenges that are not only military but deeply existential. The fight against those who seek to destroy Israel is not just a battle for the physical survival of the Jewish state; it is a fight for our values, our unity, and our collective future. And in this moment, we must choose to turn our grief into an opportunity for renewal.
Over the past year, we have seen the incredible power of unity in the face of terror. From the streets of Tel Aviv to the hills of Jerusalem, from every corner of the Jewish diaspora, our people have come together like never before. Volunteers mobilized, citizens contributed, and a spirit of resilience swept across the nation. In the face of rockets and violence, Israel did not crumble. Instead, the people of Israel stood tall—an unbreakable wall defending the land they cherish.
This unity is not just a reaction to external threats; it is a testament to the core of what it means to be Jewish. Throughout history, the Jewish people have faced adversity, but each time, we have emerged stronger. Today, despite the pain, Israel stands as a beacon of strength, not just for those within its borders but for Jews around the world. Israel is not merely a homeland for its citizens but for every Jew—whether they live in the land or not. This is why the survival of Israel is not negotiable. It is our duty to defend it with unwavering resolve.
However, as we reflect on the past year, we must acknowledge that the threats to Israel’s future are not just external. Beneath the surface, cracks have begun to form. Political divisions, economic strains, and social tensions have started to take their toll. While the people of Israel have stood together in the face of rockets, there are deeper fissures within our society that cannot be ignored. The war against terror has not just challenged our military strength; it has tested our unity.
This moment is about more than winning a battle; it is about preserving the foundation of our nation. The Jewish people have always cherished life, as reflected in the words of our prayers: “Remember us for life, O King who desires life.” This value must guide us forward as we seek to turn crisis into renewal. Our future depends on our ability to overcome internal divisions, heal the wounds of this past year, and rebuild a society that is not just surviving but flourishing.
The task ahead is not an easy one. Israel must rebuild—not just the physical structures that were destroyed by war, but the social and economic foundation of our nation. The challenges are immense, from securing the return of hostages to dismantling terror networks. But the spirit of resilience that has carried us through this difficult year must also guide our rebuilding efforts. Brick by brick, step by step, we must lay the groundwork for a future where Israel stands stronger than before.
