Hope amid Terror: the war against terrorism is a fight for progress.

Israel, October 2023.

Everything here is so quiet in contrast to the normal chaos and bustle. The airport, Tel Aviv station, and the city I am in all appear deserted. There is minimal traffic, no shouts or car horns, no students at the cafes, no old people sitting in the park. There is an air of tense unease, a quiet terror.

Every step away from “safety” is a calculated risk. We drove with the car window open to better hear the air raid sirens. Everyone I worked with today is exhausted from cumulative stress, grief, and shock.

This is Israel, October 2023. This is the “terror” in terrorism. I can’t even begin to imagine the terror Hamas has inflicted on the civilians of Gaza.

Despite legitimate concerns and issues, this war is not about Palestinians and Israelis. Over the past seven years, I have taught and worked with people from both sides, united in their pursuit of progress and a better life for all. In this war, there are no sides to take; it is simply a war against terrorism and its devastating impact on progress.

Once again, from the depths of despair, Israel is determined to look forward. As three hundred thousand Israeli reserves – the lifeblood of the country – commit to this war against terrorism, and as parents care for their children, their remaining colleagues are doubling and tripling down despite horrific stress, to maintain development and production, and to continue innovating. Because they believe progress is the way to a better, safer future. I pray this war on terrorism will also offer Palestinians hope for a better, safer future.

If you have colleagues, clients or partners affected by this ongoing catastrophe, please be supportive and understanding. Deadlines may not be met, focus on tasks may not be absolute – but with your support and understanding progress will continue. Because it must.

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