In its 76th year of independence, Israel resembles six distinct states within one nation. The first state comprises those who shoulder significant burdens, contributing through military or national service, reserves duty, or roles in the security forces. Despite their dedication, these contributors are not fairly compensated, either in terms of salary that matches their efforts or through adequate reparations for lost assets and businesses due to their service. The second state consists of evaders—those who shirk responsibility and fail to contribute in any voluntary, civil, economic, or social capacity. Their primary interest lies in reaping benefits from the state without reciprocation. Currently, the nation is grappling with a controversial conscription law, aptly dubbed the “evasion law,” which allows for widespread avoidance of state contributions. Military service is just one form of service to the state, but evasion permeates all forms of possible contributions. The third state is the southwestern region near Gaza, whose residents have long been abandoned by successive governments. For years, they have endured relentless rocket barrages, and on October 7, their plight worsened dramatically with instances of dispossession, murder, kidnapping, and arson. Entire families have paid an excruciating price, leaving hundreds of thousands as refugees within their own country, uncertain of when they might return home. The fourth state encompasses the Upper Galilee, Western Galilee, and portions of the Golan Heights, where tens of thousands have been driven away from their homes. Many residences have been destroyed by anti-tank fire, fields torched, orchards decimated, and valuable crops left to rot. Livelihoods have vanished without a trace, leaving communities in despair. The fifth state is Judea and Samaria, plagued by long-standing terrorism, which has intensified since October 7. Amid incessant efforts by Iran and its terrorist affiliates to establish a robust front from Jenin in the North to Hebron in the South, the region remains under control. Remarkably, Israel has managed to stave off numerous attacks in Judea and Samaria. While total eradication of terrorism is not feasible, suppression efforts have successfully saved lives. The sixth state, situated in central Israel, enjoys a semblance of normalcy. Daily life continues unabated, with bustling restaurants, shops, a functional education system, and undamaged businesses—save for those affected by long-term reserve duties. Although citizens in this region are not immune to anxiety over the nation’s future, many live in stark ignorance of the turmoil surrounding them. It is a hub of activity, commerce, and international travel, appearing self-contained and insulated from conflict. Beyond the physical borders lies the seventh state—the Diaspora. Comprising individuals who have sought refuge overseas, this state includes those who decided, after the tragic events of October 7, to seek solace and stability abroad. They represent a nation with a rich history, a fraught and painful present, and an uncertain future. Yet, they hold onto the hope of revival and renewal for their homeland. —Ehud Yatom (translated by Asaf Zilberfarb)
This holiday season, give to:
Truth and understanding
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