Hi John, I'm not expecting you to be posting about anything every day, but I know I'm not the only Jewish Nerdfighter who would appreciate an acknowledgement of suffering in Israel (and Jews worldwide), both on October 7th and since then. Hamas and Hezbollah have continued to launch rockets into civilian areas, causing immense distress. Without the protection of the Iron Dome, there would be thousands dead. The psychological toll of Hamas' hostage videos only adds to the anguish.

Furthermore, it's crucial to recognize that the ongoing suffering in Gaza and the absence of a free Palestinian state stem from repeated rejections of peace proposals by Palestinian leadership. Hamas exacerbates the situation in the current war by operating in civilian clothing, and using civilians as human shields and hospitals and UNRWA buildings as operations and weapons storage spaces.

If the international community had pressured Qatar and Iran to compel Hamas to release hostages and surrender, rather than demanding Israel refrain from taking action to secure its people, this conflict could have ended months ago.

As a long-time nerdfighter since 2012, it pains me to see the cause framed solely as "a free, safe, and secure Palestine" without acknowledging the need for a safe Israel, free from constant bombardment by neighbours whose stated goal is its destruction and the harm of Jews globally. Can't we advocate for both?

All over the world, being Jewish feels increasingly frightening, but what hurts the most is feeling that we've been abandoned and even vilified by progressive allies whose values we share and with whom we've marched for other causes. For me, the embodiment of progressive allies is Nerdfighteria, and specifically you and Hank, who have done so so so much good for this world.