OPINION:
The nations that have criticized Israel’s treatment of the extremists it detained from the so-called Gaza flotilla are wrong for doing so (“Video of Israeli official taunting bound Gaza activists draws ire from foreign officials, Netanyahu,” Web, May 20).
The flotilla participants knew full well what would happen to them for putting Israeli lives in danger.
The stated purpose of this flotilla was to open Gaza’s ports to all boats. However, the weapons, dual-use materials and technology used to build Hamas’ terrorist tunnel network and prepare for the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks were smuggled into Gaza — despite being banned.
Hamas has sworn it will repeat the Oct. 7 massacre. Hamas chose to start a war in 2023. An end of the maritime blockade would result in its rearming for another terrorist invasion of southern Israel.
Israel has every reason to prevent these boats from reaching Gaza. Its blockade is key to preventing future wars.
MOSHE PHILLIPS
National chairman, Americans For A Safe Israel
New York, New York
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