The resounding slap that Israel received did not end on October 7

A commentary article by Shimon Rafaelli arguing that the central lesson of October 7 is that Zionism remains an essential answer to the question of Jewish existence. The article examines the failure of the 'enlightened world', universities, media, and international institutions in the moral test after the massacre, and warns against the illusion of integration and dependence on the mercy of others. Rafaelli emphasizes the need for independent Jewish power and internal unity against an enemy that does not distinguish between Israelis.

A commentary article by Shimon Rafaelli, published on Channel 14, argues that the central lesson of the October 7, 2023 massacre is not limited to that day, but constitutes a renewed reminder of the basic Zionist need for an independent Jewish state with defensive power. The article reviews the reactions of the 'enlightened world' after the attack, and points to the failure of prestigious universities, international media, and international institutions such as the UN and the Hague courts, which he says demonstrated a moral double standard towards Israel. Rafaelli analyzes the new anti-Semitism of the 21st century, disguised in the language of anti-colonialism and human rights, and warns against the illusion that the Jewish problem was solved with Israel's success. He emphasizes the historical difference between the Kishinev pogroms, where Jews had no defensive power, and October 7, where despite the intelligence failure, a Jewish state arose that fought back. The main conclusion is that Israel needs alliances, but cannot entrust others with the responsibility for its existence, and that Jewish identity and shared destiny require internal unity.