June 26, 2025|ל' סיון ה' אלפים תשפ"ה What is the Connection Between October 7th and the Strike on Iran? By Rabbi Jonathan Muskat

The Middle East is undeniably undergoing significant transformation, with Israel emerging in a stronger military position than before October 7th, 2023. Iran’s proxies have been severely weakened, its air defense systems compromised, and Israel has delivered substantial setbacks to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The Syrian regime has collapsed, Hezbollah and Hamas have been decimated, and the looming threat of thousands of rockets poised in Lebanon under Hezbollah's control has been effectively neutralized.

Most importantly, Israel has adopted a decisive shift in its security doctrine: it will no longer tolerate missile threats or the establishment of infrastructure aimed at aggression. Israel has made it unequivocally clear that it will act preemptively to eliminate such threats. This strategic transformation has been reinforced by strong and unwavering support from the United States, reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring regional stability and security.

A Pivotal Turning Point

One could reasonably argue that had the attacks of October 7th not occurred, we wouldn’t be where we are today. The heinous attack by Hamas forced Israel to confront longstanding threats with unprecedented resolve. Without these attacks, Israel might have continued to tolerate Hamas’s terror network and periodic missile launches, perpetuating a cycle of violence. Similarly, Hezbollah's support for Hamas through missile attacks on northern Israel prompted Israel to decisively neutralize both groups.

Where Was God on October 7th?

The theological question is profound: Did God allow October 7th to happen so that it would ultimately lead to the decimation of Iran’s proxies and the addressing of the Iranian nuclear threat? This line of thinking mirrors debates about the Holocaust and the establishment of the State of Israel. Without the Holocaust, perhaps the world would not have sympathized with the Jewish people, nor would the creation of a Jewish state have gained international approval.

However, this explanation is incomplete. God could have orchestrated the creation of the State of Israel, or the defeat of Iran, through other means. The Holocaust and October 7th were not necessary prerequisites for these outcomes. Instead, these events remind us of our limitations in understanding divine plans.

Two Perspectives on Connection

1. A Glimpse of God’s Presence

Our response to tragedies like the Holocaust and October 7th is rooted in faith. While we may not have an answer or explanation for these events, we hold on to God based on the past. We believe that everything has meaning, even if it is beyond our comprehension. This belief is bolstered by historical signs of God’s love and presence. After the Holocaust these signs included the creation of the State of Israel, the reunification of Jerusalem, and the flourishing of Torah in the State of Israel and throughout the world. These milestones are not explanations for our tragedies but affirmations that God remains with us.

Similarly, the aftermath of October 7^th, marked by miraculous military successes and the weakening of our enemies, demonstrates that God is still with us. While we do not understand why the attack occurred, the results that we recently witnessed inspire faith that Hashem remains present in our struggles and triumphs.

2. A Testament to Human Resilience

The connection between the Holocaust and the State of Israel, and between October 7th and Israel’s current position, may also reflect human determination rather than divine intervention. After the Holocaust, the Jewish people rose from devastation to build a thriving Jewish state. They refused to play the victim and instead forged a future filled with strength and purpose.

Similarly, October 7th represented a colossal failure for the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, Israel fought back, turning tragedy into an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen itself. The people’s resolve has allowed them to reach even greater heights.

Transforming Tragedy into Merit

The Gemara (Yoma 86b) teaches that sincere teshuva (repentance) can transform sins into merits. But how can this happen? The answer lies in our ability to learn from past tragedies and use them as catalysts for growth. If we truly elevate ourselves through these experiences, we redeem our tragedies and turn them into merits.

This is what the Jewish people accomplished after the Holocaust, and it is what they are achieving now in the wake of October 7th. By responding to immense challenges with strength, faith, and determination, we ensure that even the darkest moments can lead to profound redemption and renewal.