Security Decisions

A month ago, a dispute arose between my wife and me, and she was very hurt by me. I want to know if I was wrong, and if so, how I can atone. The topic concerns war and hostages. We had a general discussion on the matter, and I expressed the opinion that protests weaken the government and this harms the army's ability to act. I also added that in my opinion and understanding, every hostage is a world unto themselves. I hope they return safely, although I am short on faith that it will happen the way it is being handled. I expressed my discontent that soldiers are killed in attempts to locate and free hostages. I added that, in my view, the life of a soldier who is a son to a mother or a reservist who is a father to children is no less important and valuable than that of a hostage. Other ways must be found for the redemption of captives, as, of course, the redemption of captives is a supreme value. However, in my opinion, the redemption of captives should not come at the expense of soldiers' lives or at all. My dear and beloved wife was indignant and took it very hard and misunderstood. She understood that I am not in favor of hostages being released, and the conversation continued, and then my wife raised the question, if I were there, what would I do? I answered that I would act and think in the same way. In my opinion, I can and am able to protect with my body but not at the expense of soldiers' lives, and I added that even if my child were there, I would think and act the same way. She added angrily that soldiers enlist for this purpose and sign up to die for these goals. I objected and said that from time immemorial, Israeli soldiers were meant to protect the borders and fight the enemy. The redemption of captives has always been only through negotiation and not through the loss of human lives. I would be happy to know what the rabbi thinks, and if I was wrong, I would be happy to atone for my mistake. Thank you.

Hello,

I am not delving into the specifics of the matter.

It is clear that the blood of soldiers is no less red than that of the hostages, but on the other hand, sometimes war is required, even at the cost of risking soldiers and civilians, to deter such actions from recurring.

The truth is, these considerations should be discussed in a court authorized to adjudicate matters of life and death, weighing the risks on both sides.

Unfortunately, these matters are far from being managed according to Halacha. And sometimes it becomes clear that instead of considerations of saving lives, decisions are influenced by the prestige and personal honor of politicians or military personnel.