OpEd: Standing Firm with Israel: Condemning Hate, Terrorism and Demanding Accountability from Our Elected Leaders

By Kevin Faulconer
Former Mayor of San Diego

SAN DIEGO —  In the wake of the horrific terrorist attacks on innocent civilians in Israel on October 7th 2023, we must stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel. These cowardly acts of violence, perpetrated by the terrorist organization Hamas, serve as a stark reminder of the threats faced by the Jewish community daily. And it’s not just in Israel – it’s on full display across the globe and even here in San Diego.

Israel, a beacon of democracy and freedom in the Middle East, has long been a target of terrorist organizations seeking to undermine its existence. Hamas’ latest attempts to undermine Israel’s existence took place last October and claimed the lives of over a thousand innocent civilians of all walks of life – LGBTQIA, men, women, and children. Even a Holocaust survivor was targeted in this despicable attempt to instill fear and division within Israeli society.

We must unequivocally condemn these acts of terrorism and stand with Israel in its right to defend itself against such barbaric aggression. The Israeli government has a duty to protect its citizens and ensure their safety in the face of such heinous acts.

Moreover, we must recognize and applaud Israel’s commitment to upholding democratic values, even in the face of adversity. Despite being surrounded by hostile neighbors and facing constant threats to its security, Israel remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

With the violence we’ve seen, it is deeply troubling to witness the appointment of individuals like Imam Taha Hassane, who sympathize with Hamas and condone acts of terrorism that took the lives of innocent civilians. This appointment to the County’s Human Relations Commission sends the wrong message to the Jewish community and to every San Diegan that believes we must stand against hate of all kinds. It is appalling that our elected leaders would allow such an appointment. And it is especially troubling that Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer was ill-prepared and ill-advised to vote in favor of such an appointment. She’s turned her back and disqualified herself to the community she represents.

We must stand united against terrorism and extremism in all its forms, and support Israel in its quest for peace and security. We must also demand accountability from our elected officials – they should fight to secure our region from hatred, division, and glorification of these terrorist acts.

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Kevin Faulconer served as the 36th mayor of San Diego, California, from 2014 to 2020.  He is now a candidate in the 3rd County Supervisorial District currently represented by Terra Lawson-Remer