Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Professional Obligations

It’s with great reluctance that I share this, as events are unfolding in real-time. My nephew pursued his graduate studies in Israel after a family visit years ago, during a period of relative calm. Driven by ambition, he enrolled in a school that aligned with his career aspirations, hoping to enhance his professional prospects.

While still a student, he secured a job with an Israeli firm, juggling both responsibilities. After completing his degree, he returned to the United States but continued to work remotely, flying to the company’s headquarters for meetings as needed. However, that arrangement has recently grown precarious.

For the past six months, Israel has been engulfed in conflict. Just last week, while my nephew was in Israel for meetings, the situation escalated further. He intended to return home on Monday, but all flights were fully booked, leaving him stranded. His mother, fiancée, and the rest of us are deeply concerned for his safety.

This marks the second occasion during the ongoing war that his employer has summoned him to the office. The last trip felt alarming, but the current circumstances are even more unsettling. With the current technology, such as Zoom and various video conferencing tools, one must question why in-person meetings are still deemed necessary. It's not only the risks associated with being there; flying itself poses significant dangers, given the frequency of reports regarding technical malfunctions.

Although it’s ultimately his decision, I sincerely hope he considers seeking employment elsewhere once he returns. It’s unfathomable that any company would insist its employees travel to a conflict zone, prioritizing face-to-face interactions over their well-being. If they believe that personal meetings hold more value than safeguarding their staff, they are sorely mistaken. This is far from normal business operations.

After the recent drone and missile strikes attributed to Iran, tensions are palpable. Netanyahu's actions have exacerbated the conflict, and my opinions on his leadership are strong.

Netanyahu, focused on his own survival and political power, seems indifferent to the safety of his citizens and the global Jewish community. He has long portrayed himself as a protector of Israelis while simultaneously channeling funds to Hamas and reducing military presence along the Gaza border, ignoring warnings of impending attacks. His poor judgment contributed to the October 7 assault, and, as reported, many Israelis are calling for his ousting, reflecting his dwindling popularity.

His continued leadership stems from a coalition with extreme right-wing factions, reminiscent of the far-right figures in American politics. The thought of such groups holding governmental power raises significant concerns.

Many overlook that Israel operates as a democratic state, where citizens—including Arab Israelis—possess the right to vote. Similar to the U.S. during Trump’s tenure, a regrettable choice was made. With Trump poised for a potential return to the presidency, parallels can be drawn between him and Netanyahu, both of whom exhibit a tendency to resurface politically.

Meanwhile, the Israeli government persists in escalating hostilities instead of pursuing diplomatic solutions. While Hamas initiated the current conflict, external parties, particularly the U.S. and Iran, must encourage dialogue among Hamas, Hizballah, and other militant groups to de-escalate the situation.

I've been in touch with my nephew's fiancée, who appreciates my concern. I fervently hope Netanyahu refrains from any retaliatory actions, particularly while my nephew remains in Israel. His provocative stance towards regional powers seems aimed at diverting attention from the ongoing situation in Gaza, which has certainly captured media focus.

From what I gather, Iran is not keen on broadening the conflict, despite its continued financial support for Hamas and other militant groups. Perhaps Israel believes that aggressive actions will deter Iranian funding? It appears they may be courting a larger conflict, with little expectation of support in a war against Iran. While allies will defend Israel, a proactive stance from Europe and the U.S. seems unlikely—at least for now.

Let us unite in prayer for peace, the safe return of hostages, and my nephew's reunion with his loving fiancée and mother. I appreciate your time in reading this.

Sondra Singer is a writer, storyteller, and musician whose work spans various topics, including politics, memoirs, poetry, health, and fitness. Her writing defies strict genre classification, and she can be found on Medium under the name Sondra Singer - Still Vital.

Chapter 2: Perspectives from the Ground

An Irish-Palestinian expresses heartbreak after losing 10 family members due to an Israeli rocket attack.

An American mother, stranded in Israel with her 8-month-old baby, urgently seeks assistance to return home.