Israeli History Shows Survival Requires Strength and Vigilance, Not Just Peace

Ronen Itzik, retired colonel and CEO of the Security Movement, addresses the complex question of whether Israel can live without constant conflict. He argues that while Israel should not resign itself to perpetual war, it cannot afford the illusion that existential threats will simply vanish. The path to peace and prosperity requires sober awareness, strength, preparedness, and preserving Jewish identity amid deep-rooted hostility.

Itzik highlights that Jewish history is marked not just by a series of random persecutions but by a unique resilience: a small, dispersed people maintaining identity without sovereignty for centuries yet refusing to disappear. This distinctiveness inspires admiration but also provokes envy, hatred, and opposition, sometimes manifesting as modern antisemitism disguised in new forms such as political or moral rhetoric.

He emphasizes that Israel’s geographic and strategic position in the Middle East, a crossroads of empires and religions, adds layers to the conflict beyond territorial disputes. The hostility toward Israel stems from intertwined factors including religion, identity, history, power, fanaticism, and interests. Therefore, Itzik warns against naive assumptions that all enemies are motivated solely by misunderstandings that can be resolved through dialogue.

Acknowledging the need for hope, Itzik insists that realistic awareness is essential for responsible optimism. A nation unaware of its environment and threats risks danger, while one that understands and prepares can face severe challenges. He rejects the notion that Israel is doomed to live by the sword forever but stresses the necessity of maintaining defense capabilities and unity to protect the homeland.

In conclusion, Itzik calls for a balanced national consciousness: to be alert, ready, and discerning between wishful thinking and reality, ensuring Israel’s survival and flourishing through vigilance and faith in its just cause.