Over the past couples of weeks, we have watched the terrible images of the attacks on Israel by Hamas. We also see Israel preparing for a major invasion of Gaza, knowing that it will be a terrible thing itself. Hamas is clearly a terrorist organization which was willing to use torture, rape, beheading of children and soldiers, and capturing innocent hostages to accomplish its goals. We must condemn these actions and acknowledge that Israel does have a right to protect themselves.
    
We also acknowledge that the Palestinian people have suffered terribly for decades and have very legitimate concerns that need to be addressed by Israel and the world. I think it is important to make a distinction between Hamas and the Palestinian people. As I write, on Tuesday morning, Hamas is blocking the citizens of Gaza of fleeing into Egypt to get away from the battles and the weapons. That shows that they do not genuinely represent the Palestinian people and are willing to use them as shields to protect themselves.
    
Hezbollah and Iran are also making threats of starting a second front for this war on Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. Some are fearful that other Arab nations will be drawn into this war, which could, with Iran, become a nuclear war. If that were to happen, who knows what would happen next.
    
We must pray, pray, pray for peace. The entire world is dependent on finding a way to end this confrontation in a just manner.