Hamas attack: Like the hostages in the shadows of the war

Hamas attack: Like the hostages in the shadows of the war

On October 7, 2023, a massive attack by Hamas began in Israel, which ended in a devastating result of over 1,000 fatalities and almost 250 kidnappings. After this terrible attack, the terrorists continue to hold more than 100 hostages in their hands. Richard C. Schneider, a recognized Middle East expert and former Israel correspondent for the ARD, offers insights into the current Situation. He lives partly in Tel Aviv and experienced the first -hand events.

The relatives of the hostages are tirelessly committed to ensuring that the Israeli government is aiming for a deal with Hamas in view of the critical situation to free the kidnapped. But Schneider currently sees the chances as low: "At the moment, the government is focused on waging the war against the Hisbollah in Lebanon and thinking about how to react to direct Iranian attack," he explains. "The hostages do not play any role at the moment." This focus on the war overlaps the humanitarian tragedy, which takes place in the Gaza Strip, and raises questions about the priorities of the Israeli government.

Humanitarian disaster and criticism of the government

in the Gaza Strip, the conditions after the attack are catastrophic, and the civilian population suffers greatly from the consequences of the war. When asked how criticism of the Israeli government should be assessed, Schneider replies: "It is important to criticize every government, including the Israeli. However, criticism must be based on knowledge and well." He emphasizes that there is a difference between sound criticism and propaganda rhetoric. Incorrections such as genocide are often more expression of propaganda than realistic understanding of the situation.

Schneider further explains that the asymmetrical war that Israel runs against terrorist organizations is complex, since these groups often operate out of civilian areas. This strategy aims to put the Israeli attacks in a negative light. "This tactic is part of a larger propaganda war," says Schneider, who also notes that serious damage to civilians can often occur in military operations.

Despite these challenges, the question also arises whether the Israeli army complies with international international law in its operations. Schneider suggests that this sometimes raises doubts and that it is necessary to critically question the actions of the army, especially in view of the terrible events that are inevitable in the war.

personal effects and topics of friendships

When asked whether friendships had broken after October 7, Schneider replies that he has had interesting experiences. "Not with my Palestinian friends, but rather with many non-Jewish Germans. These have withdrawn and usually no more contact." This phenomenon seems to reflect the complexity of the situation in which personal and political currents cross each other.

The tragedy of the conflict is very noticeable for Schneider. He has lost people on both Israeli and Palestinian side, which is emotionally burdened by him. "It is not easy to deal with it, even for an experienced journalist," he explains. Nevertheless, he realizes that only a few of his acquaintances ask about his well -being, which illustrates the depth of the conflict and its effects on personal relationships.

summarized can be said that the current situation in Israel and its environment is extremely complex, shaped by persistent conflicts and human suffering. With his stories, Richard C. Schneider not only gives an insight into the political dimension, but also into the emotional and social aspects that accompany the war.