The State of Israel is a strong, vibrant democracy. It is a source of power that is expressed in open public discourse, a plurality of opinions, and independent thinking, which is important to preserve and encourage. At the same time, there are issues that must remain beyond any controversy, chief among them bereavement and bereaved families. They need and deserve to be given special treatment.
In recent years, as well as in recent days, we have witnessed incidents in which bereaved families have come under attack and their grievous loss was used as fodder for these attacks. In other words, the very bereavement that is supposed to transcend any political argument has become a weapon with which to attack.
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This is a moral red line that must not be crossed and we must stand guard and ensure that it is not breached.
"They died so that we could live," we state in every memorial service, humbly acknowledging that the terrible price paid by bereaved families was exacted in the defense of the state and the public so that we can prosper and live in a safe democracy that allows for pluralism. This is a sacrifice that demands we honor and cherish it.
The fallen and the bereaved families are part of the IDF and part of the defensive shield that protects us all. Every soldier serving in the military and their families must know that when a soldier gives their life for the people, the people will protect and defend their honor and that of their families.
We have lost many soldiers and commanders and I keep their families close. I see the courage they demonstrate and like every commander, I see them as my very own family. Their pain cannot be exacerbated in any way and we must do everything in our power to alleviate it.
Bereaved families walk among us quietly, shrouded by the deepest sorrow. They may keep to themselves, but their pain is always present. We must set them apart, empathize and symmetrize with their pain and show them the respect they deserve as those who shoulder the defense of the state.
We must use every opportunity to honor and embrace bereaved families. We can disagree, argue, share a variety of opinions – but we must protect the families. It is our duty to ourselves, so we avoid sliding down the slippery slope of social separation, and it is the duty to them – a national, moral, and human duty.
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