A Reminder on Erev Shabbat

It's been a long weary week - more than a week - it's been a long weary month.... Things are relatively quiet at the border so far today. We did hit a warehouse in Rafiah yesterday (IAF) and conducted a strike which injured a few people in Khan Yunis, but other than that we just received the rockets I reported on last night.

Lots of political jabber here in Israel and lots of meaningless words bantered around the world..still discussing us (Israel), as if the world had absolutely nothing else to talk about.

But, just a reminder, as we sign off for Shabbat, what this Gaza War is all about. Ten thousand beautiful Israelis lived in Gush Katif, farming the sand and producing magnificent crops for Israel and for export. The Arabs in the area were thrilled when the Jews came back into Gaza, because they said, now the land will grow produces and be bountiful again. Only under the Jews does the Land produce.

And they, the local Arabs, participated in and benefited by the bounty.

Elements were there of course, stirred on by western nations and left wing Jews who hate Israel, to stir up trouble. The residents of Gush Katif held their own however, even after the IDF withdrew.

But, when Ariel Sharon, Ehud Olmert and a cowardly Knesset decided to uproot them and destroy their beautiful homes, greenhouses, synagogues and communities, our Land, and our People, went into a deep depression from which we haven't recovered

.

It haunted us through Lebanon and through thousands of rockets falling in the south and continued trauma of the residents.

Gush Katif Photos MKFremont & GBlech

Until we finally had no choice but to go back into Gaza.

Absolutely true to the words of every opponent to the disengagement.

War Photo by IDF

From lush greenhouses and produce to War because we gave up our Land....not only gave it up, but gave to those who wished to destroy us.

Only when Operation Cast Lead began, did the country sense a whisper of hope again...because of the injustice done to these beautiful people, because the expulsion brought tragedy and terror, because it was felt, finally we will stand up for what is right and defend our land and our people. But,true to the lack wisdom and character on the part of our leaders, this hope was dashed within a short while when, once again, this government snatched victory from our grasp.

Lulls are not the same as cessation...and even lulls, when dealing the kind of enemy we do, produce lethal attacks...which we witnessed last week.

We may be tired of fighting, Mr. Olmert, only because you and your friends never allow us to win. And we are very tired of fighting with the hapless, corrupt and immoral leaders in this country.

Never, Mr. Olmert, will we be tired of winning. We will see that day when we win. And we will see the beautiful lushness of Gush Katif once again marry with the Sea, settled by Jews and belonging, as it should, to Israel once again.

Shabbat Shalom

Quiet Day Only 3 Rocket Attacks and other news

Since our government continues to deny that rockets are being fired into Israel on a daily basis (SINCE the "ceasefire") it is up to us bloggers, I guess, to set the record straight. Occasionally, Channel 2 or some news site will mention one here and there, and the government finally had to acknowedge one or two as well..like the one that fell in the middle of Sderot this morning.

Here's today's list gathered from Ynet and Muqata:
8:20 am. 3 rockets fell on Sderot
9:50 am. rockets in the Western Negev
2:00 pm false alarm sirens in Petah Tikvah (we were told)
5:45 pm rockets land in Kibbutz Kfar Aza
Morning hours: Terror alert in Tel Aviv... no news as to apprehension of terrorist.

Other news from the day:
1) Shimon Peres stood up for Israel today at the World Economic Congress in Davos, Switzerland. In a debate with Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan regarding the Gaza operation, Peres shouted that Turkey would have done the same thing if rockets were falling on Istanbul. Erdogan began raising his voice and wouldn't yield to the request of the moderator to stop, saying "Israel was killing people.." [uh, duh, war, sir?]. Red-faced he walked off the stage. For once I can give kudos to Peres.

2) Cyprus has more guts than the US Navy as it has finally detained the Iranian ship carrying weapons to be unloaded in Syria - destined for either Hezbollah or Hamas. No news as to how long the ship will be detained or what course of action will result. But at least someone has taken the courage to halt it's course.

3) Overseas voters have begun to cast their ballots in Israel's upcoming election. Mostly State, security and El Al personnel and their families, voters went to the booth in New York and London. (Ynet)

Barak changed his mind

I guess Barak realized how utterly stupid it looked for him to be traipsing off to America and he has decided "in light of the events of recent days" to stay here. I guess if he believed his own words that it was "quiet in the south" others had to inform him...that, hey, ehud, it ain't quiet, not now, never was.... and with the current indecision and confusion, it ain't ever gonna be.!!

9:00 am Update

1) Barak is leaving for America tonight to meet with American Defense Minister Gates. This in the middle of a War here? Shouldn't our Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, be directing Israel's military first? (rhetorical). Yesterday, as if he has nothing else to do, he oredered the take down of caravans in the Shomron - in the middle of the War, then today he leaves for America? Does this mean we're not going to respond until he gets clearance from America? Why must we consult with America before we do anything? Or does this mean we aren't going to respond at all, and it's just business as usual? (Haaretz/Israel Radio)

2) US Navy reports they weren\t authorized to seize the weapons bound for Hamas when they boarded the Iranian ship in the Red Sea. They simply let it continue on it's journey to Syria where they will be trafficked to the Gaza Strip somehow...or to Hizbollah in the north. (Haaretz)

We think America will help?

(I will be away from my computer for much of the day...check Muqata for timely updates.)

Boker Tov 8:am

Not much overnight. The IAF bombed three tunnels in the Philadelphia Corridor. We're waiting to see what, if anything, the government decides to do. Don't hold your breath.

Update 11:48 pm

1.) This??? in the middle of a War? Unbelievable. Barak doesn't have anything else to do?????????

Threat to Caravans in Yesha

Reported: 23:33 PM - Jan/27/09

(IsraelNN.com) Police are expected to try and evacuate caravans in Judea and Samaria on Tuesday. The two areas particularly singled out by the police are Adei Ad near Shiloh and Neve Tzuf near Dolev.

The Binyamin council said: “It is a shame that every time Ehud Barak feels a need to improve his political status he uses the police against residents of Judea and Samaria. He thinks the pictures of Jews being beaten up will improve his support among the radical left.”

2.) According to Ynet, Olmert announced tonight that we haven't yet responded to the attack this morning. (This could mean he doesn't have a clue what to do)

3.) Obama's first call as President went to Mahmoud Abbas, and his first interview was on Saudi TV network Al Arabiya. He told Abbas he would work with him as partners (for peace) (Ynet) and said on Saudi TV that America had wonderful relationship with Muslim countries 20-30 years ago and America can again. Read the whole article @ INNews. .

4) All of this has endeared Obama to Hamas who now seems to like Mitchell. (why not, he is not Israel's friend). same article as above. INNews

Good job America

Fighting for recognition ........

As usual, several groups are rushing to claim responsibility for the attack this morning at the Kissufim crossing. Ynet report that "An Islamist group affiliated with Al-Qaeda calling itself the 'Jihad and Tawhid Brigades' " has claimed responsibility, Muqata is quoting walla that Islamic Jihad wants the "honors". Does it matter? Anything based in Hamas territory belongs to Hamas (read Iran)...so what's the difference??

Update 5:00 pm

It has been reported that ground troops have been sent back in to Gaza, reaching Khan Yunis this afternoon, where IAF strikes had already been taking place in response to this morning's attack by Hamas on the IDF at the Kissufim crossing.

To allay any confusion over conflicting reports that the bomb at the border crossing was just "an old device planted earlier, that just now accidentally went off", it is now published that "..... two or three terrorists were seen by local Arabs ... planting the roadside explosive that was detonated as an army vehicle passed." (INNews)

Updates 3:56pm

Conflicting reports on our response to the attack this morning. Some sources say the IAF did some limited bombing in Khan Younis, others say the response was limited to the border with a fly over sonic boom (Gaza City) - presumably as a warning? Ah...such brilliant strategy. a sonic boom... Haniyeh must be laughing his head off. (although that would be one way to do him in I guess).

The family of the IDF non commissioned officer has requested that neither his name nor his photo be published. It has been reported in some sources he was a tracker which means his identity must remain secret. (Trackers are usually Bedouin and for their protection and that of their family must be not identified)

The Muqata is reporting however that the seriously wounded IDF officer who was flown to Soroka was just very recently married. He is still undergoing surgery at this hour, to remove shrapnel from his head. The name of this officer, according to the sourece, is Aharon Yehoshua ben Chaya Shoshana.

There has been some talk (and I hope more than talk) about exempting newly married soldiers from being called to the front for one year after marriage...according to Biblical tradition. It is about time we address this situation.

Attack at Kissufim Crossing kills Soldier & Wounds Three More

Early this morning Hamas attacked our troops patrolling the border at the Kissufim crossing - killing one and wounding three, one of them seriously. Devices laid at the border by Hamas were detonated in addition to mortars being lobbed into Israel. The seriously wounded officer was flown to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheva for emergency surgery.

Some response has been taken both at the border and flights into Gaza by our military.

As I reported yesterday, despite the media's obfuscation of the facts, there have been a handful of rocket attacks in the south since the so-called ceasefire.

More as this story updates.

A few news updates

1) We've been hearing from the media about all the false alarm Tseva Adom's (Red Alerts) in Sderot and Ashkelon and you will hear Barak brag about the 'quiet" in the south. Just thought I would pass on what Muqata is reporting: Apparently the people in these towns are reporting booms following the "false alarms", one of the false alarm booms landing in the Ashkelon southern Industrial zone...... and you wanted to vote for Barak??

2) Amazingly, BBC and Sky news are refusing to air a pro-Hamas video asking for donations to Gaza. They are under a lot of pressure to do so, and for once I must say kol hakavod to these broadcasters. Miracles do happen.

3) It appears that the Gazan doctor (see my earlier post) who lost his 3 daughters in the war, lost them to Hamas bombs and weapons...perhaps a booby trapped house. The investigation is still underway and while I do want to respect his grieving, the truth about the incident must be made known to the public as the initial reports all blamed Israel.

More later...

Gilad Shalit

I may have to eat my words about election points for Kadima not being the reason for Operation Cast Lead. I see something developing here that makes me want to be really sick.

Gilad Shalit has been held captive for 945 days and suddenly our government has taken an interest in him. Olmert, Livni, and even Barak are talking about him, about his release, how secret "I can't tell you about them now" negotiations are in the works for his release, about how the war in Gaza has contributed to that end. Livni, who could have cared less during 900 of the days, and in fact who, in late December, said "some soldiers never come home" referring to Gilad, has done a rapid about face and is now saying the Gaza crisis will not end until Shalit is returned home. The media is carefully "leaking" bits and pieces of information... today, Amos Gilad, head of Diplomatic Security for Israeli Defense Ministry said we have received "signs of life" for Shalit, and Operation Cast Lead opened new possibilities.

Photo www.onejerusalem.com

If a strong arm against Hamas is what was needed to position Shalit's release - which is what we are being told, why in G-d's Name, was it not done months and months and months ago? Not only would the residents of the south have been spared years of trauma, but one of our sons, who has paid a price very few can imagine, would have been home and safe and among us.

Is it possible that Gilad Shalit become a useful tool as elections draw near? Certainly if there is one thing that would secure a political party's enormous popularity - even more than crushing Hamas - it is the return of a living Gilad Shalit. The nation would be ecstatic...as we should be. Gilad is in all our hearts and we long for his return.

We wondered what deal was given Hamas? Of all the parties running, the one most favorable for Hamas would be Kadima, who, once in power again would let the south wither under rocket attacks just as before, and would be willing to turn over large portions of our land to a Hamas/Fatah entity, now being discussed.

Politically speaking, if this is the case, the strategy is brilliant. Not a soul in Israel would not want the success of Shalit's return.. everyone continues to pray for his safe return.

Will we see a "price to be paid", a sudden breakthrough, nice trade, just in time?

Of course, my heart still has to hope so, but my stomach will lurch at the timing. And trust me, it will make me run as far as possible in the other direction to cast my vote.

Analysis - Lengthy... But Important - Please Read

Now that our boys are out of Gaza, there are some things that need to be said.

Photo IDF spokesperson

As long as they were in Gaza, in harm's way, as little as possible needed to be said about the motives of the government for sending in our troops - our total and unbending support had to be with the men and boys on the ground.

Knowing full well that the government did not send them in for the right reasons, still I hoped and prayed that in spite of that, we would do what needed to be done. The men were ready. They were primed to push to victory - to crush Hamas once and for all. They were excellent in the field and I prayed that they could complete their task.

Unfortunately, this was not to be the case. Right at the doorstep of success, Olmert and Barak pulled the forces, and once again yanked the victory from our grasp. From what little I do know about IDF Chief Gabi Ashkenazi, he must be aghast at this decision. He did a superb job in directing the troops. He needs our thanks and congratulations, as, do, of course, the men and boys who fought so valiantly. All the troops coming out of Gaza have expressed great disappointment that they weren't allowed to finish the job.

It is all quite obvious that Hamas will simply rearm as quickly as possible, that the civilian infrastructure they hid behind was severely damaged, but not their chain of command...although we were drawing close to the higher echelons before the disgraceful exit.

We know that even though many tunnels were destroyed, there are hundreds still in place, and no one will really stop the weapons smuggling. Hamas has said, correctly, "we know how to acquire the weapons." Israeli intelligence stated early in January that there were already Iranian-made Fajr rockets in Gaza, (London Times) and since we did not hear of their destruction, we must assume they are still there. At any rate Iran has promised to deliver more for future use.

In other words, while we did some damage to the Hamas warehouses, launchers and infastructure, we stopped short of what needed to be done for victory.

But let's get real. The push in Gaza, on Olmert's part, and cooraborated by Barak, had nothing to do with punishing Hamas for 8 years and 8000 rockets on our citizens. It had nothing to do with protecting the south or it would have been done years ago. It had nothing to do with protecting Israel in general, although I swear there were times when I heard the faint beginnings of the ancient and righteous roar of the Lion of Judah in the voices of our so called leaders.

I'm afraid however, that even if there was such a whisper, it has been shut down and silenced and those "in charge" continue on their paths of corruption and betrayal.

So, what was it? Why did we march into Gaza then abruptly march out of Gaza? What exactly were the goals that Olmert has beamingly declared we reached so quickly? There is no doubt in my mind that the whole thing was orchestrated from beginning to end.

Everyone has their take on it. Some think it was Bush pushing Israel for a short lived spurt of strength to make his exit look good, some think it was political manuevering ahead of the elections to strengthen Kadima's hand.

While both of those reasons sound plausible up front, they really don't hold water in depth. It is probable that Bush did want us to go in, but I think he wanted us to hammer Hamas, not tease them and let them go again. Bush's primary reason for this would be to advance Abu Mazen, whom he [mistakenly] thinks is a moderate nice guy and would like to see him in power instead of Hamas. (Abbas himself however has other ideas, like a unity government with Hamas)

If Olmert acted on the advice or request of Bush, then his bizaare behavior regarding Condoleeza Rice and the UN vote and his betrayal of Bush makes no
sense. Nor does his independent decision to not complete the job in Gaza substantiate a response to American intervention...this time. (And frankly, whether one likes Bush or not, or his policies towards Israel, for Olmert to embarass the man he has bragged about as his best friend (Bush) in such a rude manner only highlights the self-serving and egocentric ways of this Prime Minister).

As far as US intentions go, unless it was an after the fact pretense, even the US military felt Israel made a mistake not to complete the victory and squash Hamas.

Something else seems to have motivated Olmert. Certainly his ego manical personality was be a contributing factor, but to what end? Not the Israeli elections. Because if the Israeli elections were the motivating factor, then once again, Olmert would have gone for the kill (pardon the accurate expression).

This country wants our boys to complete the job and destroy the Hamas entity. The nation, both left and right factions, were united in this desire. So if it were election points for Kadima that Olmert was seeking, he would have finished the job. Whoever will deliver that victory is whom this people will elect. As soon as the government declared a one-sided ceasefire, Kadima lost the upcoming election.

That leaves us with the question we posed earlier. What was the whole Gaza episode about?

Without turning this blog into a book, the answer to that taps into my previous promise to write a more detailed analysis of what is happening here in Israel. I will try to offer a brief explanation here.

This Gaza War, I believe, was scheduled to take place from the very beginning as a nod to the globalists who are convening to re-direct the rhetoric about, and manipulation of, Israel. Bush was given a chance to set some groundwork, but he didn't accomplish what had been hoped for, partially because his own understanding of what was expected veered off course from their agenda. Or rather, the agenda of the globalists shifted and Bush was left holding the bag.

The original plan if you recall, has been the infamous two-state solution - Israel and "Palestine" living side by side in peace. This plan, you and I both know, will never happen. Arafat was too capricious and a bit too crazy to actually deliver the Two States from the PLO side. Abbas was groomed to be a moderate alternative...except that he was a bit too lackluster and he couldn't deliver either.

As I said in my 2007 article "Coup in Gaza, So Slick it Squeaks" someone was needed who wore both kefiyah and silk suit, and the charismatic Haniyeh might fit the bill. Hamas, with their enormous but radical street strength, would either be repelled for their radical nature and Abbas would emerge stronger, OR Hamas itself, by its charisma, would deliver the goods themselves.

Hamas was originally brought into the game by Condi Rice's demand that they be allowed to enter into the 2006 Palestinian elections (do you think she was stupid or sly?). The intention was a Palestinian free for all, to see who would emerge on top, and the West, including the corrupt leaders of Israel were playing both cards, one against the other.

It's called hedging your bets.

However, neither the West nor the corrupt leaders of Israel know what they are dealing with and they continually misguess the outcome. Their anticipated scenario began to come undone.

Meanwhile, as the world dreamed on about two states living side by side in peace, certain leaders began to look upon the "one state" solution more favorably ... but not everyone noticed.

Because Bush was the leader of the free world and the original author of the now failing Road Map, in the end it was his own inability to deliver "2 states" which was taken as a sign to forge a new, (read old) path. Love him or hate him, Bush was the leader only of America, and he is not a globalist. He wanted the United States to be the one who solved the "Israeli-Palestinian" issue.

Obama looks beyond the United States and says he is going to unite the world, and he will be the catalyst for global change. And Europe is right on board.

Uniting the world, however, means compromise and embracing at least some of the values of a large portion of that world, and a very very large portion of our globe wants Israel gone...out of the Middle East. Europe has already gone the route of compromise. Accomodating the enormous influx of Muslims onto it's various shores has meant accomodating the principles of Islam...and the European muslim community is at the moment more radical and louder than it's American counterpart. Bat Yeor correctly calls Europe Eurabia in her book of the same name.

Slowly the global rhetoric regarding Israel is becoming more in tune with Islamic thinking, and again, because of their own personal struggles with radical Islam in its midst, European leaders are right on board.

International sympathies held against Israel no longer lie with Abbas and Fatah, but indeed with Hamas, the brave freedom fighters. The scene is beginning to slowly change...have you noticed? Enormous demonstrations in support of Hamas and involvement with them are sweeping the European continent. And the leaders are listening and carefully edging their way towards the same. Lauren Booth (sister in law of Tony Blair) and cheerleader for the cause of Hamas, recently led 10,000 muslims in wild screams and chants": "...we have a message to you, Israel. You’re finished...Israel out, Israel out." [out of London, out of the middle East]. It's the tip of the iceberg.

So, back to Gaza.

Olmert, though corrupt, is not stupid. He wants to be on the winning side. His insatiable and desperate need to be loved by friends in high places is an strong motivator for him, and a useful weakness for others. Israel is not in his vision, but his own political survival is front and center.
AP Photo

Bush? No longer the leader of the free world? Olmert felt free to flip him: "In your face, Bush!!" Europe and the rising star of Obama, who will soon be joined at the hip because of the ideals of a world united....omg yes, bring them on. Not only bring them on, but Israel will bow to their day in the sun. We will initiate a ceasefire with our troops and give it as a gift to the emerging united world.

In fact, Olmert made no secret of his reason for the maneuvers of the sudden withdrawal from this War. His words: "This is not a ceasefire with Hamas. These are understandings with elements in the international community which Hamas, as an illegitimate entity, has no place to be involved in."

By Olmert's own admission the ceasefire had nothing to do with the entity we are fighting, it had nothing to do with a war where thousands of rockets have fallen on our citizens for years, where our soldiers are shot upon and kidnapped, where just now 10 of our precious boys lost their lives and many more wounded. It was an agreement with "elements" of the international community. Who are these "elements" in the international community? What exactly are "these understandings?" Do you think they are for the good and strength of Israel?

I have news for you. Israel is nowhere in the picture in their minds.

There's something else. Hamas. Did you think it strange that Hamas, who has such livid vitriolic rage and hatred against Israel, would simply lay down their weapons and watch while our soldiers walked - WALKED - out of Gaza???

Photo IDF Spokesperson

Something is very peculiar about this scenario, although for our men and boys, I am grateful and trust that it was the Almighty who was really escorting them out.

There is a parallel: Lebanon May 2000. When Barak ordered the sudden withdrawal of IDF troops from the buffer zone in Lebanon, (and 7,000 loyal Southern Lebanese Army (SLA), it's families and officers were forced to immediately evacuate as well), Hezbollah directed the traffic at the border. I spoke with one SLA officer afterwards. He told me "...Hezbollah knew more than the SLA. How come? ...For the first time, Hezbollah didn't kill us or bomb us...because they had an agreement..." (Journey into the Heart of Israel, 2001)

The shock and betrayal was still with him. How could an agreement have been made with Hezbollah? What was promised?

We ask the same. What has been promised Hamas by Europe, by Olmert? Obama isn't even in the picture yet, but the table has already been set. He will be the figurehead of change and he was accorded an honor few have been given: Israel on a silver platter, offered by Israel herself. Israel won't be invited to the dinner because she is the main course.

The drumbeat doesn't come from Obama, he is simply the catalyst.

Where does this leave us? Since our withdrawal, rockets continue to come into Israel, smuggling has resumed and Olmert has said we are willing to pay the terrible price (for Shalit) of 1,000 terrorist and all open crossings into Gaza - meeting all the demands of Hamas....hours after we had them at their throats. Exactly where we were when this started. This is insane.

And I am certain, pre-arranged.

It is a very awful situation and could lead one to despair.

Except for one thing. There is another way to look at this terrible scenario. I am a firm believer in God's destiny for Israel and for the nations. Whether we like it or not (and we usually don't!), but as Jews and as Israel, we have always been a measuring stick for the nations. This war, unlike anything else recently, brought very clear lines of demarcation. Individuals and nations either supported Israel or supported Hamas. It was very black and white with little gray area.

It is said in the Tanach that the nations have a choice where they stand with Am Israel which reflects where they stand with acceptance of God's plan.

Perhaps God was simply taking a vote.

Summary....

• Rocket attacks continue in Kiryat Malachi, Kiryat Gat, Ashkelon...mortar attacks on IDF troops at Eretz Crossing...

• All the European big wigs, puffed out chests, entering Israel today to celebrate their assumed** victory over Israel....closing down the major highway between Ben Gurion and Jerusalem... Olmert is beside himself with glee....his friends still love him.

• British academics call for Israel to lose the war against Hamas...ceasefire is not enough they say: In a letter in Friday's Guardian newspaper, more than 300 academics said they must do all they can to prevent Israel from winning the war. A cease-fire is not enough, they say, adding: "Israel must lose." "We must do what we can to stop Israel from winning its war," the letter said. "Israel must accept that its security depends on justice and peaceful coexistence with its neighbors, and not upon the criminal use of force. It is not enough to call for another cease-fire...." (JPost)...

• Venzueula, Bolivia, Qatar, Mauritania all suspend ties with Israel.

• 51 soldiers in hospital, 13 civilians, conditions from critical (1) to serious (10) to moderate and good. (Yediot Achronot)
  
  **Tehillim 2:1 Why are the nations in uproar? And why do the peoples mutter in vain? 2 The kings of the earth stand forth, and rulers take counsel together, against Hashem and against His anointed [Israel] 3[They say] Let us tear their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us! 4 He that sits [is enthroned] in heaven laughs; Hashem mocks them. 5 Then He will speak to them in His wrath, and terrify them in His rage.

Nine Rockets in the South This Morning

As we contemplate the ridiculous decision of our government this morning to declare that our goals have been met and we will stop attacking Hamas, even though they have declared no such cessation in their attempt to obliterate us, we worry about our men and boys in Aza, with permission only to respond to fire, not pre-empt an attack and not destroy the infrastructure of Hamas.

And we continue to be concerned for the residents of the south. Nine rockets so far have been launched into Israel this morning, 6 of them in Sderot. Most schools in the south are closed this morning in anticipation of incoming rockets.

What a victory we celebrate!!

Again we must re-iterate...a unilateral ceasefire means only that WE cease firing, not that they do.

How can a resigned prime minister continue to function as prime minister and continue to cause so much damage to our country?

Empty Heads

When people with empty heads talk to one another it shouldn't matter to the rest of us, unless of course, those empty heads are the leaders of our country.

As the Cabinet passed the unilateral ceasefire declaration tonight, Olmert declared that Israel has met it's goals in the war and we will stop fighting at 2 am.

Unilateral, I remind you, means only one side does the declaration, only one side acts upon it, only one side is bound by it. Hamas has already said it has no intention of stopping.

Our boys are deep in Gaza and we are going to just stop fighting???? Rockets are still raining down on Israel and we are going to stop fighting and just say "we won."?????? Gilad Shalit is still in captivity and we are going to stop fighting and say we are making progress towards his release????

For what then did Dvir Emanualoff die? Or Ro'i Rosner, or Yoni Netanel??? or the rest? For what our our men and boys right now lying in Soroka, and Tel haShomer, and Hadassah?

We have reached WHAT goals???? With a beaming face, Olmert has declared that now "our friends" will help us to try to stop the smuggling of weapons into Gaza. Oh, how nice. Friends like all those who demanded our heads when we finally responded? What about the Fajr 4 & 5 rocket launchers that are already in Gaza? Did we take them out? I think not.

In the middle of a War which is just barely underway, and the enemy is unbowed and determined to fight through to victory, and still shooting rockets and anti-tank missles at us, our leaders just turn to each other and say, "they tried to kill us, we won, let's eat???" Let's congratulate ourselves, let's throw a party with all our friends????

With a straight face Olmert said this: "This is not a ceasefire with Hamas. These are understanding with elements in the international community which Hamas, as an illegitimate entity, has no place to be involved in."

In other words, we have reached an agreement with the world (who despises us for defending ourselves), not with Hamas. The one who is attacking us and killing our civilians (Hamas) has no business to be involved in this ceasefire."

OMG he really said that.

In my university years, with a psych minor, I spent several months working in a mental hospital working with very severely ill individuals. These people would talk to themselves with seemingly intelligent words. They were often very knowlegeable about the world leaders, who they were and what they did. They spoke with seeming authority, both asking and answering their own questions as if they were leaders in that world they had heard about. They were totally detached from reality, and functioned in world of their own, but they were contained in a hospital and harmed no one else.

The heads of our government are exactly that... asking and answering their own questions as if they were really leaders of the world.....totally detached from reality and functioning in a world of their own. The only difference, and the great tragedy, is that these pretenders harm everyone and their babble is lethal.

-------
We aren't surprised of course. But, we had hoped, for the sake of Israel's survival, for the sake of righteousness, and for the sake of the boys and men on the ground in Aza, that in spite of the moral corruption of our government, in spite of their disdain for Israeli lives, and in spite of their detachment from reality that somehow, maybe because our boys on the ground are so dedicated and determined and strong, that maybe, just maybe, we could push on until victory.

For a moment it seemed so. Even Hamas said "What happened to Israel, you are fighting like you did in 1948!!"

For a moment we rallied, for a moment we lifted our head.

For a moment.

What now?

Additional Report of Wounded Soldiers

It has now been cleared for publication that there were an additional 5 Givati troops wounded over the Sabbath...one seriously, one moderately and 3 with light wounds. In addtion there were the four reported earlier who were apparently wounded in a friendly fire incident and one soldier overnight, bringing to a total of 10 IDF who were wounded over Shabbat.

All have been taken to Israeli hospitals.

Explosive Story Developing: Gazan Doctor at Sheba Medical Center Loses 3 Daughters in War

Another developing story from the day. Dr. Ezzeldeen Abu al-Aish, a Gazan doctor who works at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, lost three of his daughters today in an IDF shelling of his home, and two more are seriously wounded and were evacuated to Israeli hospitals.

Dr. al-Aish is a fertility expert and well known among Israeli doctors. He recently lost his wife to leukemia.

There is a lot of confusion surrounding the incident and much grief amongst his colleagues. A short time ago, he held a press conference, angry at the IDF for targeting his house which he said had been identified as one to be avoided. According to his story, when he saw tanks pull up to his house he called a journalist to identify his house. He was not home at the time of the shelling.

A mother of 3 soldiers who are deployed inside Aza, Levana Stern, interrupted the press conference and accused him and the Israeli media of propaganda. While her actions may seem inappropriate I believe there are several unanswered questions regarding this incident.

Dr. al-Aish seemed to show no anger towards Hamas, why not? Why were his daughters still in a house in the middle of a war zone if he has free access in and out of Israel and is part of the hospital network here? Why were they left in the house when a tank pulled up in front of it? Why did he leave, leaving them alone in the house? Why did he call journalists when he saw the Israeli tank?

This story has the potential to be quite explosive regardless of whether or not it can be proved that Hamas had fired from that location, or whether or not it can be shown that the doctor was complicit with Hamas' activities in any way.

More as it develops. Information at this stage is from Ynet News linked above.

Sabbath update - Miracle in the South, Serious Injuries in Aza

This morning during Sabbath prayers an incoming rocket delivered a direct hit to a synagogue in the South. Miraculously everyone had exited the building during a break in the prayers. No one was inside and no one injured. B'H

In Aza, 5 IDF wounded. Overnight, one soldier evacuated to Israeli hospitals with moderate wounds. This afternoon, 4 paratroopers, 2 officers and 2 soldiers were seriously wounded and have been take to hospitals for treatment.

Talks of a ceasefire are to conducted by Israeli cabinet this evening.

For what?

Glitch

Hooray....technical glitch solved for the moment. :)

NITZAN - SHOPPING AND MORE

The Israeli spirit....how does one describe it? I guess it's one of those things you have to feel and observe and experience, because words are impossible to explain it.

Today a group of us went to the current home of some of the Gush Katif expellees, to support and encourage them in the midst of the war. The group of about 50 was from Women in Green, and the town is Nitzan -1/2 way between Ashkelon and Ashdod - and where many of the Neve Dekalim families are still living, after 3-1/2 years. The families live in paper-thin caravillas (trailers) and there is much uncertainly about the future. (Trust me, the walls of those trailers are thin; I pounded on one of them and thought for a minute my pounding would break a hole in the OUTSIDE wall. It thumped like the sound of corruagated cardboard.)

Never mind the future..... right now Nitzan is, like the rest of the south, under warnings and attacks from incoming rockets...being shot from the very communities they were forced out of by our government - from the towns where they lived in Gush Katif. If that's not difficult enough, there are no miklatim (bomb shelters) in this area of Nitzan, leaving the families very very vulnerable to any incoming missiles.

To make up for the inadequate protection, the government dropped in a number of rolling sewer pipes, large concrete ones, that are now kept from rolling by wood wedges. I wrote about them in an earlier article with some pictures. Many of the "pipes" are decorated with a story or idea. We added our own touch.

Our group went to Nitzan to tell our friends we don't forget about them, and we want to let them know we are here for them for whatever they may need. One of the things they need is for people to shop their stores... so that's what we did. Some call it Zionist Shopping....shopping to show support for Eretz Yisrael and to support the people under direct attack.

As always, however, we went to strengthen, but we came back strengthened. Because of their emunah and their courage and strength WE were encouraged. Like I said you have to experience it.

Rachel and Moshe Saperstein were our hosts, and Rachel's main concern was not the 2-3 times daily they need to rush into the sewers (pipes I mean) because of Tseva Adom Alerts (Color Red Alerts of impending rockets) but that, G-d forbid, one should occur while we were there. None did happen while we were there, but we heard sirens in nearby Ashkelon about 12:15, and we later learned a grad rocket had hit that city at that time.

Rachel set out coffee and cookies for us in their home, and took us on a tour of the sewer pipes. Each one has a story....just like each family of Gush Katif/Nitzan.

Here are a few pictures and a few stories to share. For a more complete show of pictures check my picasa web: (please note the pictures there are not labeled as yet)





Having some fun! I guess shopping is always fun for women....but there were several men there too







Rachel Saperstein on the left. Anita Finkelstein and Nadia Matar








Shopping in one of the stores









Women (and Men!) in Green decided to decorate one of the sewer pipe shelters...making the statement on it that "The Land of Israel belongs to the People of Israel"





This pipe is quintessential "Gush Katif":
In addition to showing the beauty of the Sea that was the Gush Katif experience, this sewer pipe says "You expelled the Orange - you received the Red. [alert]"




A man bady injured in Neve Dekalim was given his own "personal" pipe. So edgy and unnerved is he that actually sleeps in it. In this photo one can see his mattress and some personal belongings. (gentleman standing is not the resident, but one of the WIG visitors.)





The picture tells the story. In the background, barely visible is the cardboard house, overshadowed by the storage container to the left, still full of things from Neve Dekalim, and suffering moisture and rodent damage, and the sewer pipe bomb shelter... the saga...but not the ending yet!

Kol Hakavod to Fox's Greg Jarrett

Absolutely amazing lies from the moment the legal advisor Diana Buttu from Ramallah opened her mouth. Kol Hakavod (job well done) to Greg Jarrett for calling her on it more than once and cutting her off when she continued her propaganda.

German police remove Israeli flag from private apartment window

This amazing picture shows the Duisburg German police removing an Israeli flag because 100,000 frenzied supporters of Hamas and Hizbollah were demonstrating in the streets against Israel.

The video below was shot by the owners of the apt. who were dumbfounded to see the police break into their apartment and remove the flag. They were in the street to film the demonstration.

Details can be found on http://www.mukata.blogspot.com/ or http://www.jewishodysseus.blogspot.com/

Jack Engelhard - Who Always Says It Like It Is

The following is a excerpt from an opinion piece written by Jack Engelhard for IsraelNationalNews.com Jack's pull-no-punches writing is always a breath of fresh air. Please go to the link and read the entire article.

Spare the Pieties on Gaza

by Jack Engelhard

Israel is a Jewish State. Is that your problem?

Frankly, given a choice, I prefer the skinheads and other brutes who express their anti-Semitism openly. In such places, we know the enemy.

But please spare me the pieties and the righteous indignation of those “good people” protesting throughout Europe against Israel’s defensive operation in Gaza. True, thousands have taken up banners in support of Israel. At the same time, however, the streets of Europe (and even some in America) are in an uproar. These are the “humanitarians” - the good, the noble, the refined, who chant “peace.”

Now you’re up and about? Now you speak? Where were you when, throughout the years, thousands of jihadist bombs fell on Israel? The streets of Europe were empty. There were no pictures in the newspapers of grieving Jewish mothers and fathers. You called it “peace” as long as the Arabs were doing the killing and the Jews were doing the dying. All was well with the world. ........

Read the full article at: http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/8494

Lion of Judah

We all know that Israel has only reluctantly entered the PR arena and there is logical reason for such a delayed entry. The realities of our existence and the wars we fight are so obvious it is embarrassing to reiterate the very clear facts of a justified response, because to do so assumes the world is so stupid it can't see them.

Unfortunately, one has to reluctantly come to that conclusion. It has always boggled the minds of clear thinking people that there is even any question as to whether Israel should defend itself.

That's the secret to this balygan (mess)...the battle for legitimacy isn't logical. We shouldn't have to explain ourselves (hasbara). It should be obvious. It IS obvious. But because a large portion of the world has become insane, and it is clear that things are hafook (upside down) there must be some other explanation.

There is. It is pure and simple anti-semitism...in the cloak of anti-Israelism - which makes it a spiritual battle.

Am Israel (the People Israel) has a Covenant with the Almighty and there are several parts to this Covenant. One is that we are a unique People, in a unique relationship with Him. Over the centuries those who couldn't accept God's decision have tried to obliterate us, over and over again. Although it has cost us untold agony and suffering, it won't happen because God has promised that we will always survive. But this makes the nations RAGE.

Part of this holy Covenant includes a Gift from the Almighty....it is our Land... Eretz Yisrael. The world thinks that if it cannot obliterate the People, at least it can tear the Land away from her, and by doing so, perhaps - just perhaps - it will make the Covenant look untrue.

This is why anti-semites can say "we don't have a problem with Jews, it is only Zionism we have a problem with." The tactic of destruction has moved from the People - which they will temporarily accept because attempts at destroying us haven't worked - to the attempt to rip the Land away and destroy the "myth" that God gave it to the Jewish People.

The problem is that that won't work either.

And yes, Covenants have two participants. We have responsibilities towards God that He doesn't ask of others. God has been disgusted with us when we didn't appreciate the Gift and has thrown us out a couple of times. But as He promised, He will always - always - bring us back.

Only Am Yisrael holds the key to the Land...and we can embrace our Gift or reject it. This is why the world spends so much time seducing our leaders. Such enormous pressure and hoodwinking has been applied to the various leaders of this country, so that if at all possible Israel herself would reject the Gift from the Almighty....and that would make the work of the nations so much easier.

This is the precarious place in which our leaders have placed us today. It is sobering, and I would like to think we won't be thrown out again because we have rejected the Land.

Thankfully though, there is something new happening. The people of the street are waking up, and beginning to stir. New leadership is emerging that is strong and has not forgotten that this Land is our Gift from the Almighty. There is hope in the air because we have finally raised our bowed head - even if for political reasons, we have raised it.

Finally, I have heard some in our government say "No" to the world, and "enough is enough", we will not back down this time. Yes, there are still plenty of scary words being spoken, like "we have no intentions to destroy Hamas (well, for God's sake, why not??!!) and still lack of wisdom and understanding...but faintly I hear an echo of our committment to this Land coming surprisingly from from lips of leaders who seemed to have forgotten. Just barely, I see a tiny spark of the passion for Eretz Yisrael ignited within the souls of those who appear to have sold them.

In spite of ourselves, perhaps we are coming to from our slumber. It could be wishful thinking for I know the political machinations of the so called leaders, but ............. should the Lion of Judah ever raise her G-d given Voice and Roar.......the enemies who attack will know that the One True God does exist, for it is He who leads us in battle.

Sadly I must announce 2 more soldiers lost in today's fighting. Sergeant Amit Robinson 21 of Kibbutz Magal was killed by sniper fire. He was a tank crewmen - part of the Armored Corps division of the IDF

Amit Robinson

In the afternoon, Captain Omer Rabinovich was killed in close gunfire with the terrorists. Rabinovich was 23, a resident of Arad, and an officer in the Golani Brigade.

Omer Rabinovich

7th Fallen

Another precious soul, IDF Officer of the Haruv Battalion of the Kfir Brigade, Ro'ee Rosner, 27 of Holon was killed this morning by anti-tank missles in the former Gush Katif town of Netzarim.



Photo reproduction: Ofer Amram

Morning Update

Update from this morning. Among them these three incidents:

1. The northern front has opened up briefly as 4 katyusha rockets were fired into Israel around 7:30 am. The rockets landed in and near the Nahariya, Shlomi, and Kabri areas. Ahmed Jabril, a local terrorists group in southern Lebanon has claimed responsibility for the attack. Both Hamas and Hizbollah have said they were not involved (of course they could sit and watch while a "splinter" group does the work). Nerves are rattled as a few hours later, 2 sonic booms from airplanes generated panic as the north remembers the war there not so long ago. 11:50 am update. There have been 2 more rockets fired into Shlomi. One of today's rockets has hit an nursing home where some have been lightly wounded by shrapnel and are being treated for shock as well. The IDF has returned fire to the launching site.

2. More rockets fall on Be'er Sheva during the night. No injuries.

3. An attempted terrorist attack was thwarted at the Maale Adumin gas station. (Maale Adumin, a peripheral city just outside Jerusalem). An arab attempted to blow up the gas station by setting himself on fire (?), but was neutralized by the IDF. One bystander was burned.

Map

Several sites are indicating that long range (70km) Fajr-4 missles have been smuggled into Gaza and Hamas is attempting to get these longer range missles into the northern part of the strip where the major launchers are located. (Rotter)

70 km is approximately the distance from northern Gaza to both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. This Homefront Command map gives you the firing range capabilities of the new weapons supplied by Iran.

The English translation on the map was provided by Jameel at Muqata. This site an excellent source for continually updated information. In case the above link doesn't work the address is: http://www.muqata.blogspot.com/

LET'S PRETEND

DAY 11 PART TWO

Note: During these days of War, I will be posting many identical pieces on both this blog and the blog From the Hills of Jerusalem.

Regretfully, we have additional news of a 5th soldier being killed in battle today. He was Sergeant Alexander Mishbitzki, 21 of Be’er Sheva. Mishbitzki was killed in the fighting in northern Gaza Tuesday morning and was a part of the Combat Engineering Corps.

The most recent developments from the front include the Israeli bombing of three UN schools in Gaza, all of which were used to store explosives, hide terrorist operatives, and from which mortars were fired into Israel and/or into IDF positions within Gaza.Before the IDF had an opportunity to describe the military action, the world had once again already gone berserk.

Here is one official statement regarding this incident:

Hamas Operatives Killed in UNRWA School

After an investigation that took place over the past hour it has been found that amongst the dead at the Jabalya school were Hamas terror operatives and a mortar battery cell who were firing on IDF forces in the area. Hamas operatives Imad Abu Askhar and Hassan Abu Askhar were amongst terrorists that were identified to be killed.

“We face a very delicate situation where the Hamas is using the citizens of Gaza as a protective vest,” IDF Spokesperson Brig. General Avi Benayahu said following the incident.

Rockets continue to pound the south, and reservists are readying for entry into Gaza, or God forbid, should a northern front open up, deployment there. The Home Command is readying both the Center of the country and the North for emergency procedure.

Photo IDF Spokesperson/JPost

UPDATE DAY 11 PART ONE

This was a gut wrenching day in the War. Overnight and today we lost 4 soldiers in two separate friendly fire incidents. In the first incident, a Golani unit had taken over a building, and a tank fired at the building, either with the mistaken assumption that there were Hamas operatives inside, or an accidental shelling...it is still unclear. Twenty four other soldiers were wounded, one critically, and three severely, the rest sustaining light to moderate injuries. Under extremely heavy IDF protection, the injured were evacuated by helicopter and ambulances to hospitals in Israel. The three Golani soldiers who were killed in this incident were the following:

Staff Sargeant Nitay Stern, 21 of Jerusalem

Corporal Yousif Moaddi, 19, Druze Village of Yerka in the Galilee

Major Dagan Wertman, 32, Maale Michmas

The fourth soldier was killed in a separate friendly fire incident was Paratrooper Brigade officer Captain Yehonatan Netanel, 27, from Kedumim

Yoni Netanel left behind a wife and 3 mos. old baby.

All pictures from the IDF Spokespersons website:http://idfspokesperson.com/

IDF Soldier Fallen in Gaza

I regret to report that in the early hours of the incursion first sergeant Dvir Emanualoff, 22, of Givat Zev was wounded and flown to Soroka Hospital in Be'er Sheva, where he succumbed to his wounds.

Please pray for the family of this courageous young man.

The funeral will be tonight, 11pm Sunday, January 4, at Mt. Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem

photo supplied by the IDF

Day 9: Raw Emotions

Day 9: Emotions are raw here today, as our boys enter Gaza for the first time since the Gush Katif expulsion. Elite units - Givati, Golani, the Armored Corps, Engineering Corps and Paratroopers - all inside Gaza now, in tanks and on foot, going house to house in some areas to secure the territory from where the rockets are being launched. Some 20 soldiers have been wounded, 2 seriously, with unconfirmed, but reports that dozens of terrorists were killed in the first several hours.

The territories from which the rockets are being launched are in many cases, the former homes or neighborhoods of the Gush Katif families. Our soldiers this morning entered and secured Netzarim to block weaponry from reaching Gaza City. Before the expulsion, the families who lived in Netzarim, just by their presence, kept the weapons from reaching Gaza City.

Our boys and men are skilled and strong, but the question is always, "will our government allow them to do what needs to be done?" While I am so proud of our guys, it makes my heart sick at the same time, as this maneuver should have been totally unnecessary.

"To deal a major blow to the Hamas networks, take control of the areas from which rockets are launched, and to strengthen our deterrence, in order to create a better long-term security situation.”

This is the government's position and every time I hear Olmert or Barak say we are there to take control of the areas from which we are being attacked, I want to scream "but we once HAD control of those areas, there were few if any Hamas networks there before the expulsion, and a better long-term security situation was already achieved."

This is the reality that everyone knows.

The truth is, however, as my mother always told me, "there's no use in crying over spilt milk." And so for the morale of our soldiers, and for the voracious appetite of the international Israel watchers, I will do everything in my power to put my best face forward and do whatever I can in the media war we battle.

Please continue to pray for our men and boys..for the freedom for the IDF to engage for victory, for their courage and of course for their protection. And pray for a miracle for Gilad Shalit in the midst of this balygan.

Our Ground Troops Sent In

Today, Barak ordered the ground troops to enter Gaza. I can only hope and pray that the intentions of our government are to win, to have victory.

Please pray for our soldiers:

Prayer for the Protection of the IDF

He Who blessed our forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob -- may He bless the fighters of the Israel Defense Forces, who stand guard over our land and the cities of our God, from the border of the Lebanon to the desert of Egypt, and from the Great Sea unto the approach of the Aravah, on the land, in the air, and on the sea.

May the Almighty cause the enemies who rise up against us to be struck down before them. May the Holy One, Blessed is He, preserve and rescue our fighters from every trouble and distress and from every plague and illness, and may He send blessing and success in their every endeavor.

May He lead our enemies under our soldiers' sway and may He grant them salvation and crown them with victory. And may there be fulfilled for them the verse: For it is the Lord your God, Who goes with you to battle your enemies for you to save you.

Now let us respond: Amen.

QASSAM - Join a Virtual Showing this Sunday January 4, 2009 for Solidarity with Israel

As this Gazan War continues, the anti-Israel/anti-semitic rhetoric is getting louder and louder. Most all foreign media present the conflict as something that just ocurred last week....as if Hamas fired one little rocket at Israel - just once - and we went berserk.

In an effort to combat such foolishness, this Sunday - via a unique "Israel Solidarity Showing" on the internet - 12Tribe Films, along with several co-sponsors, and in conjunction with Chutzpah Productions, will present Igal Hecht's compelling film on Sderot and the trauma of nearly 8 years of rocket attacks.

The information from 12 Tribes follows, including links for viewing the trailer, and how to order tickets ($9.99 via Paypal).

6th Tevet 5769, Jan. 1st, 2009

www.12tribefilms.org

This Sunday, January 4th, join thousands of people worldwide in watching QASSAM, the powerful movie about people in Sderot, and share in their experiences over the past 8 years!
Click here to see the trailer for Qassam or follow this link:

http://wejew.com/media/3290/The_Qassam_Movie_Long_Trailer/

The world today is mostly focused on criticizing Israel for it's attack on the terrorist forces in Gaza. Instead of criticizing Israel, the world should be asking what took Israel so long to respond to the 8 years of rocket attacks on its civilian population! Now is the time for us to show as much support and understanding for Israel as possible.

Your virtual movie ticket helps support organizations that support the people of Israel...and in particular the residents of the Southern communities most affected by rocket barrages.

Order your virtual movie ticket today: http://israelwecare.weebly.com

After ordering you will receive directions via email on accessing and viewing the movie that will be available for viewing on Sunday, January 4th from 7AM EST - 12PM PST.

Invite others to participate and help lift the spirits of those in their time of need.

Current Sponsors:

Council of Young Israel Rabbis in Israel , Sderot Media Center , Sderot Hesder Yeshiva , Standing Together, 12Tribe Films Foundation, SASS Video Productions , Jewish Internet Defense Force and WeJew
To have your organization added as a sponsoring organization contact avi at 12tribefilms dot org.

12 Tribe Films Foundation is a "For Impact" not-for-profit organization (awaiting 501c3 status) dedicated to promoting creative projects about the Jewish people and the land of Israel that connect, entertain, and inspire.
12Tribe Films Foundation Johnson Ave. New York City NY 10463