Dear Editor,

The recent publication of your banner story, "Hands off our war," has ignited debates within our circle. Israel's Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, made a statement expressing his country's stance against United Nations interference in their ongoing conflict with the terrorist group Hamas. The Ambassador's remarks have sparked discussions regarding the complexities surrounding international intervention in conflicts and the delicate balance between national sovereignty and the global responsibility to protect.

We know that the attack last 7 October has killed at least 1,400 people — mostly Israeli civilians — and that, in essence, is deplorable.

We had discussions regarding whether the UN should come in and mediate, but Fluss' accusations that the UN has a long-standing anti-Israel bias have come to my attention.

Indeed, we are already seeing the effects of these long-standing conflicts from countries surrounding Israel, and the fact that the Israeli government is already saying that Hamas' attack is second only in barbarity to what Israelis faced during the holocaust makes it even more chilling.

But I stand with what Israel has been doing as a counter-offensive against Hamas, to which Fluss assured that there will be no humanitarian crisis and minimized casualties as he explained that the airstrikes in the Gaza Strip are targeting well-known Hamas enclaves.

I also agree with Fluss' statement that their objective is to ensure that Hamas will no longer be able to attack Israel as it did, as he clarified that the attacks are solely against Hamas and not the Palestinians.

Also commendable was the Israeli envoy's explanation that not even the UN can stop Israel from a war that it did not start, which was "forced" on them by Hamas with its massacre of innocent Israelis, including women and children.

It is essential to foster open dialogue and hear all parties' perspectives. It would benefit the United Nations to address the allegations of bias raised by Israel and provide their standpoint on the resolutions passed. Understanding different viewpoints can contribute to a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the situation.

His wish for a peaceful resolution is shared by many. The escalation of conflicts can lead to devastating consequences, and it is crucial to work towards de-escalation and finding diplomatic solutions. The global community must strive for dialogue, cooperation, and understanding to prevent further loss of life and widespread destruction. The ultimate goal should be to achieve lasting peace and stability, as the consequences of a full-blown conflict would be catastrophic for all involved.

Kent Sebastian

crackedlinkensphere23@gmail.com