The Jewish Federation of Atlantic and Cape May Counties stands behind Israel in its relentless quest for peace - even with those neighbors who seek her destruction.

For nearly 8 years, 250,000 citizens who live in the south of Israel have been subjected to rocket attacks fired at them from Gaza. In an effort to move the peace process forward, Israel unilaterally withdrew its citizens from Gaza in 2005. The hope was that the Palestinians would elect leaders to help develop their economy and prepare for living side-by-side with Israel.

Unfortunately, the result of lsrael's withdrawal from Gaza was the elevation of Hamas as the Palestinian people's chosen leadership. Hamas is bold in its call for the total destruction of Israel. Financed by Iran and Syria, Hamas is responsible for countless terror attacks on innocent Israeli citizens. From the security of schools and densely populated neighborhoods in Gaza, Hamas has relentlessly fired thousands of missiles into Israel. Their unilateral end to a fragile recent ceasefire is the cause of the current defensive moves of Israel's Defense Forces.

Hamas has also been stockpiling enhanced weapons which now can penetrate 20 miles into Israel's neighborhoods. More than 800,000 people are within the range of these deadly launches. Israel has every right to protect its citizens from this danger.

Israel has a long history of making concessions in exchange for peace, including the return of land. Israel's lasting peace with both Egypt and Jordan prove this is possible with the Palestinians.

Hamas must end its barrage of terror against Israel. Then, and only then, will peace have a chance.