Guy Tomer

[Oren Anolik 🇮🇱 @OrenAnolik]

A personal note:

The State of Israel is currently going through one of the most challenging periods in its history. Palestinian terrorists have brutally and sadistically murdered in a few hours over a thousand civilians.

They decapitated infants, separated children from their parents and murdered them, assaulted young women, and then shot them. They went house to house in a hunting spree, showing no mercy, not even to elderly women. They massacred entire families. They killed foreign workers and even the beloved pets of families.

Those who weren't murdered were severely injured, and those who weren't severely injured were traumatized, endured humiliation, and over 150 people were taken hostage to Gaza.

Outstanding soldiers and police officers lost their lives while rescuing civilians. The President of the country stated that since the Holocaust, there hasn't been such a high number of Jews murdered in a single day. The shock in the country is immense, and the grief is profound.

As the Israeli ambassador in Cyprus, I talk about this crime against humanity in every media interview and conclude each one with gratitude for the Cypriot support for us and the assurance that Israel will prevail and win.

In addition to being a diplomat, I am also a father to my middle daughter, who is 20 years old and serves as a combat soldier in the Israel Defense Forces, currently stationed just 6 kilometers from the Gaza Strip.

I asked my daughter for permission to share with you what I wrote to her, and she agreed:

“I understand that you are currently located not far from where the 'action' is. I try not to worry, but I am not always successful.

I know that your desire to make a significant contribution to Israeli society led you to volunteer for the combatant unit you are in. Still, I would much rather you not find yourself in actual combat.

At the same time, if, God forbid, it happens, and you find yourself in battle, I am asking you to fight. Fight with all your might, determination, strength, and courage.

Recent events have reminded us once again that we will not survive if we don't fight for our nation, our people, our home and our just cause.

I can't stop worrying and at the same time, my love, you make me a very proud father. Stay safe. I can’t wait to hug you again as soon as the war is over. 💪😘״