Israeli author Efrat Leibowitz harshly criticizes Israeli society—especially its religious segments—for ignoring the hunger and suffering in Gaza, calling it a betrayal of Jewish values and the Torah.
A Modern Parallel to Lamentations
Efrat Leibowitz, an Israeli writer, draws a powerful parallel between the scenes of devastation and hunger in Gaza and the imagery found in the Book of Lamentations, traditionally read on the Ninth of Av to mourn the destruction of the Temple. She sees Gaza’s current torment as an echo of ancient suffering.
A Reflection of Our Own Suffering
Leibowitz emphasizes the painful irony: “We who were victims throughout history are now inflicting the same harm.” The stark images of starving children and fathers unable to feed their families resonate deeply with the age-old words of mourning.
A Moral Imperative
For her, the collapse transpiring in Gaza demands clear moral action from the Jewish community. Silence is not neutral—it is shameful. She argues that the greatest shame lies not only in committing injustice, but also in denying it.
Silence as Complicity
“This,” Leibowitz insists, “what we are doing in Gaza for over 22 months is itself a crime—and our silence is a full testament to that crime.” She insists that anyone who fails to speak out for ending the war and siege is implicitly admitting that hunger is part of their goal.
Fifth Stage of Hunger
Dr. Khalil Al-Daqran, spokesperson for Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, confirmed on Sunday that Gaza has entered the fifth stage of famine. In an interview with Al-Jazeera, he detailed a sharp rise in malnutrition-related deaths—175 so far, including six in the past 24 hours—and thousands more daily cases admitted to hospitals.
From: radionisaa