Amid Cease-Fire Demands, Retired US Military Leaders Take a Side on Hamas-Israel War
More than 100 retired U.S. military leaders signed an open letter Thursday urging support for Israel and its efforts to counter the Hamas terrorist attacks.
The Jewish Institute for National Security of America, which released the letter, emphasized the importance of supporting Israel amid calls for cease-fire and for the U.S. to stop funding Israel.
“As calls for a cease-fire, accusations of war crimes, and politicization of proposed aid to Israel build, this letter from more than 100 retired senior U.S. military commanders underscores enduring U.S. support for Israel,” Blaise Misztal, JINSA’s vice president for policy, told The Daily Signal in a statement Sunday.
Misztal added that the letter “also demonstrates that defending Israel’s right to self-defense is not just the right thing to do but also the squarely in the U.S. interest. Standing by and strengthening partners is the best way to make friends and deter our enemies.”
The letter emphasizes Israel’s need for continued support amid what seems likely to become a protracted war.
“As retired American military leaders who devoted our lives to defending the nation, and many of whom served in the Middle East, we stand beside Israel and recognize its right to defend itself against the Iran-backed terrorist threats,” the retired military leaders write.
On Oct. 7, the U.S.-designated terrorist group Hamas slaughtered over 1,400 Israelis—including civilians and even babies—and abducted roughly 200. Thirty-two Americans were among the individuals killed, and 11 citizens are still unaccounted for, according to the U.S. State Department.
JINSA is a non-partisan 501c(3) focused on national security of the U.S. and its relationship with Israel. The institute also provides research and recommendations to influence U.S. policy decisions.
More than 100 retired military leaders from a variety of branches signed the letter to “signal to the world – U.S. friends and foes alike – that America remains a force to be counted on.”
In the letter, they emphasize the strength of Israel and their hopes the nation will persevere.
“Israel is strong enough to defend itself, by itself. It will prevail, regardless the cost. With American assistance, that cost can, and should, be reduced,” the letter asserts.
The letter calls for the resupply of American-produced munitions to Israel and to work in a bipartisan manner to ensure Israel receives what it needs “militarily, diplomatically, logistically, and with intelligence.”
Originally Published in The Daily Signal.