Israelis feel worn down by a paradox that they experience every day: they are expected to stand on the front line against terrorists, yet they are simultaneously subjected to intense global criticism, suspicion, and even hatred. That tension creates a sense of exhaustion that is deeply personal. I have seen symptoms of this for many years when speaking with Israelis, but the symptoms have never been more apparent than they are now that a military confrontation with Iran may be approaching.

The burden of being treated as a global shield

For decades, Israel has confronted organizations (Hamas, Hezbollah, the Iranian regime, and others) that openly declare that their goal is the destruction of Israel and the killing of its citizens. Israelis know that, whether the world admits it or not, these groups threaten not only Israel but also broader international stability. When Israel intercepts weapons shipments, disrupts terror financing networks, or conducts operations against terrorists, many Israelis see these actions as part of a larger struggle that benefits other countries as well.

Yet the global response rarely reflects gratitude or even acknowledgment. Instead, Israelis hear unfair and false accusations of disproportionate force, colonialism, and genocide. The sense of being expected to fight a battle that others prefer to avoid — while being condemned for the way they fight it — creates a feeling of being used........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)