As the glow of Hanukkah candles illuminates Israeli homes, the nation grapples with the somber reality of a war with Hamas that has endured for two months. The faces of Israelis taken hostage in Gaza continue to haunt the streets, featured on posters adorning Jerusalem’s bus stops and buildings. This Hanukkah, a time traditionally reserved for joy and celebration, is marred by the memories of October 7, a day etched into the nation’s history as a dark moment when Hamas claimed the lives of 1,200 people.
For the families of the 138 Israelis still held hostage, the festival takes on a particularly solemn tone. The sense of loss extends beyond individual tragedies, with the nation feeling the weight of displacement. Approximately 200,000 Israelis have been uprooted from the south, where Hamas infiltrated, and the north, attacked by Hezbollah from Lebanon. The absence of tourists due to the ongoing conflict has led to hotels accommodating many of the evacuees.
“Oct. 7 was a day that changed the course of history in Israel,” remarked Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lior Haiat, describing it as “the worst day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust.” In response to the shocking events, some Israelis have sought a sense of security by purchasing firearms, a move sanctioned by the government.
Tonight as Jews all over the world celebrate #Hanukkah, we ask that you light the first candle for Noa Argamani who is currently being held hostage in Gaza by Hamas terrorists.
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) December 7, 2023
May Noa and all of the hostages be reunited with their families this Hanukkah. #BringThemHomeNow pic.twitter.com/qVSF45ekI7
The war’s impact is evident in the nation’s collective psyche, reflected in the dominance of war news on Israeli television channels. However, the focus remains primarily on the Israeli perspective, with rare glimpses into the scenes of destruction in Gaza. The Israeli offensive, including airstrikes and ground operations, has left more than 16,000 people dead, according to Gaza health officials.
In a departure from pre-war activities, weekly demonstrations against a government plan to limit the judiciary have vanished from the streets. The country appears less polarized, at least temporarily, as it prepares to observe Hanukkah—a festival symbolizing an ancient Jewish victory with eight nights of candle lighting and the frying of foods in oil.
Despite the emotional toll, many Israelis express resilience. Psychologist Danny Brom notes an increase in patients since Oct. 7 but highlights acts of purposeful engagement, such as baking for soldiers and offering lessons to evacuees. Public opinion generally supports the soldiers and the continuation of the war, with pride in the Iron Dome missile defense system developed in collaboration with the U.S.
U.S. President Joe Biden emerges as a hero in the eyes of many Israelis for his consistent support of Israel’s military actions. A billboard on Jerusalem’s Emek Refaim Street features Biden alongside Israeli and U.S. flags, expressing gratitude. Israeli families publicly thank Biden, as well as Egypt and Qatar, for their assistance in freeing hostages.
At the forefront of activism are relatives and supporters of the hostages, camped outside the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv. Renaming the square “Hostages Plaza,” they chant impatiently for the return of their loved ones. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, fighting for political survival, prioritizes eradicating Hamas and securing the release of hostages.
As the war rages on, peace activists and campaigners for judicial overhaul redirect their focus to the post-conflict period. The vision of peacemaking with Palestinians faces challenges, with support for negotiations dropping by 23% in two months, according to a Peace Index survey.
Amidst the uncertainty, organizations like Standing Together and Amal-Tikva strive for a peaceful future. Meredith Rothbart’s nonprofit expands its Israeli-Palestinian leadership institute, aiming to engage both peoples in peacemaking from within their societies.
Protest leader Ron Scherf, founder of Brothers in Arms, believes it’s not the time for anti-government protests yet, expressing hope for the government to take responsibility. The complexities of the ongoing conflict and its aftermath continue to shape the narrative of Israel’s struggle, casting shadows over the festival of lights during this challenging Hanukkah season.
Photo Credit: GettyImages
Comments are closed.