In the face of ongoing authoritarian conflicts around the globe, the results of the U.S. elections present a rare ray of hope, signaling that rationality may still push back against extreme radicalism.
For those who oppose President-elect Trump, including traditional media outlets in the digital era, this moment demands deep reflection. It should serve as a wake-up call to those who cherish liberal values—values now often hijacked by a self-styled “progressive” left that retreats instead of advancing, rejected by much of the public, and exposed for its failure or reluctance to condemn the atrocities of the October 7 massacre.
Rather than standing firm, many took to the streets, expressing sympathy for the very individuals responsible for the violence, sounding alarms about security threats both internationally and domestically, including for the United States. The widespread surge in antisemitism that followed exposed a growing danger, one that threatens the core of democratic societies.
The antisemitism driving the October 7th atrocities was fostered by violent ideologies, including that of a murderous Iranian regime, which continues to orchestrate a multi-front war aimed at eradicating Israel and silencing all those who affirm her right to exist.
The Trump administration’s historic pivot, embodied in the Abraham Accords, marked a shift from rejection to engagement—moving from the “three no’s” of Khartoum to the three yes’s: recognition, negotiation, and peace. Revisiting this paradigm shift is crucial not only for Israel but also for altering perceptions toward an increasingly radical and dangerous global axis.
Antisemitism, a malignant and ever-evolving hate, is a warning signal for the decline of societies where it takes root. Its modern form manifests through attacks on Jewish symbols, on campuses, in public spaces, and online. The disturbing demonstrations in support of Gaza, including those in New York City shortly after the murder of six hostages, exemplify how antisemitism continues to spread.
Recognizing Israel as the nation-state of an ancient people who returned to their homeland after millennia of exile and persecution is a vital first step toward genuine peace. This acknowledgment is essential to paving the way for negotiations.
This recognition carries consequences, including ending UNRWA funding that perpetuates conflict, stopping the spread of antisemitic propaganda and policies, and confronting foreign funding that has transformed academic institutions into breeding grounds for indoctrination. The adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism by over 40 countries is essential for any comprehensive strategy against antisemitism.
Hope, as the late Rabbi Sacks eloquently stated, is an active virtue that requires courage. The results of the U.S. elections provide a rare opportunity for profound change that, if embraced, could set the stage for lasting peace.