February 11, 2025|י"ג שבט ה' אלפים תשפ"ה The Hostages’ Ordeal: A Stark Reminder of Hamas’ Evil and the Need for a Bold New Approach in Gaza By Rabbi Jonathan Muskat

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The recent release of hostages by Hamas provides a stark reminder of the inhumane treatment inflicted by this terrorist organization and underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of their power in Gaza. When Or Levy, Eli Sharabi, and Ohad Ben Ami emerged after 491 days of captivity, their emaciated appearances evoked harrowing images of Holocaust survivors. Their condition and the brutal circumstances of their detention demonstrate why the presence of Hamas in Gaza cannot continue if there is to be hope for peace and security in the region.

It is no coincidence that this Shabbat, on the very day that these hostages were released in such horrific condition, we read about the war against Amalek in the Torah. Amalek symbolizes the ultimate evil—an existential threat that arises with the intent to destroy the Jewish people. Similarly, Hamas’s actions, from the atrocities of October 7 to the inhumane treatment of hostages, align with the archetype of Amalek. Their brutality underscores the need for Israel and the global community to confront and eradicate such forces decisively. The Torah portion’s emphasis on remembering and confronting Amalek resonates deeply in our current reality. It reminds us of the obligation to combat the root of evil while ensuring the safety and dignity of innocent lives. This confluence of events compels us to reflect on our responsibility to stand against terror and pursue a future of security and peace.

When President Donald Trump first suggested that Gazans should be removed from the Gaza Strip, many around the world reacted strongly, labeling the proposal as ethnic cleansing. However, the Amalek-like behavior of Hamas, as evidenced by the horrific condition of the hostages, demonstrates that even if such removal is permanent, it is not ethnic cleansing if the goal is to rid Israel of Hamas. The aim is not to target Gazans as an ethnic group but to dismantle a force of terror and destruction. If Gazans reject Hamas and renounce terror, they should be able to stay and rebuild their lives in peace. However, if they do not, then Israel must act decisively to remove Hamas and, if necessary, relocate Gazans, allowing only those who renounce terror to return. It’s about time the narrative shifted to recognize this fundamental truth.

Hamas’s actions are not isolated incidents of cruelty. They reflect a pattern of behavior consistent with their stated mission: the destruction of Israel and the murder of Jews. This ideology is enshrined in their charter and propagated through schools, mosques, and media under their control. Hamas’s atrocities on October 7—including attacks on civilians, rapes, and murders—are acts of barbarism that align with their long-standing commitment to violence. Their leaders openly declare their intent to repeat such attacks if given the chance. It is clear that Hamas does not act as a governing body for the benefit of Gazans but as a military force bent on terrorism and destruction.

The comparison of Hamas to Amalek—Israel’s ancient archenemy—is apt in understanding the nature of the threat they pose. Amalek represents those who seek the annihilation of the Jewish people. Similarly, Hamas’s unrelenting hostility and genocidal rhetoric place them in this category. Just as Amalek had to be confronted decisively to ensure the survival and security of Israel, so too must Hamas be addressed with unwavering resolve. This is not about targeting the Palestinian population but about dismantling an organization that thrives on hate and violence.

Critics have accused Israel’s military actions in Gaza of constituting ethnic cleansing, particularly in light of proposals for relocation of Gazans during the rebuilding of the region. However, these accusations misrepresent the situation. Ethnic cleansing involves the deliberate and permanent removal of a population to achieve homogeneity. Even if the removal of Gazans were to become permanent due to their failure to reject Hamas, this would not constitute ethnic cleansing if it is the only viable means to eliminate Hamas and its terror infrastructure. The goal remains the protection of lives and the establishment of peace.

Some in the world may have been lulled to sleep about how evil Hamas really is. After all, it has been almost 500 days since October 7th, and people tend to forget. However, the condition of the hostages was a stark reminder of just how evil Hamas is, and the entire world should take notice and respond accordingly.

To truly resolve the crisis in Gaza, several steps must be taken:

Rejection of Hamas by Gazans: The people of Gaza must reject Hamas’s leadership and ideology. This is not an easy task, given Hamas’s oppressive control and use of intimidation. However, meaningful change can only occur if Gazans choose leaders committed to peace and coexistence.

Intervention by Moderate Arab Nations: Regional powers such as Egypt and Jordan must play a role in facilitating the removal of Hamas. These nations have a vested interest in stability and can help ensure that Gaza does not remain a breeding ground for terrorism. They should also incentivize and provide opportunities for Gazans who wish to emigrate to build new lives elsewhere.

Israel’s Responsibility: Israel must continue its efforts to dismantle Hamas’s military and political capabilities. This is essential not only for Israel’s security but also for the well-being of Gazans who suffer under Hamas’s rule.

Relocation if Necessary: If Hamas’s removal proves impossible without significant civilian harm, relocation of Gazans during reconstruction may be a necessary step. This would allow for the rebuilding of Gaza without the immediate threat posed by Hamas’s infrastructure. Only those Gazans who renounce terror should be allowed to return to the rebuilt region.

It is high time that the international community, especially moderate Arab nations, recognize the necessity of changing the narrative. Israel should no longer be placed on the defensive for taking harsh measures against a population led by Hamas. Instead, other nations concerned about the Gazan population should voluntarily accept and incentivize those Gazans who wish to emigrate. This would demonstrate genuine concern for their welfare while supporting a lasting solution to the crisis.

The world must recognize that a ceasefire or any agreement that leaves Hamas in power is not a pathway to peace but a guarantee of continued conflict. The images of the hostages—their suffering and resilience—serve as a sobering reminder of what is at stake. They highlight the cruelty of Hamas and the impossibility of coexistence with an entity that embodies such evil.

For true peace to emerge, Gaza must be freed from Hamas’s grip. Whether through internal reform, regional cooperation, or international support, this change is essential. If Hamas cannot be removed and continues to endanger both Israelis and Gazans, then more drastic measures, including relocation, may be justified to ensure long-term safety and stability.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is real and deeply concerning. However, addressing it requires confronting the root cause: Hamas. Until this organization is dismantled and its influence eradicated, peace will remain unattainable. The hostages’ ordeal is a call to action, a reminder that the status quo cannot continue, and a testament to the urgency of decisive action against those who perpetuate terror.