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In war, it’s your life. Those who really know history — far too few — can appreciate the common bond between Israel’s struggle and the American struggle.

When Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, declared the birth of Israel as an independent state, May 14, 1948, and when the American founders signed the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776, both were done in solitude in the face of certain war and attack by powers far larger and stronger.

Israel then was a tiny island surrounded by a sea of hostility by the neighboring Arab countries, far greater in number, and all committed to the destruction of the newly declared Jewish state.

The American founders, representing 13 American colonies, took a great, lonely stand against the mighty British empire.

Following both declarations was war. And, against the odds, both small fledgling nations were victorious and prevailed.

Both struggles were for eternal values and the freedom to struggle for and pursue them. It’s why both peoples prevailed against great odds.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi boycotted Netanyahu’s address and then called it “the worst presentation of any foreign dignitary … addressing the Congress of the United States.” She lectured that the prime minister should be using his time working on “a ceasefire deal that will bring the hostages home.”

This is exactly what Netanyahu is doing. But in contrast to Pelosi, who has nothing on the line except her political calculations, he understands what is involved and how to protect his people and his nation.

In 2011, Israel released 1,027 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for one Israeli soldier, Gilad Shalit, held hostage. One of the 1,027 released was Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader and mastermind of the Oct. 7 attack. Sinwar was in prison, sentenced for the murder of two Israeli soldiers. He is known to have murdered at least 12 of his own people accused of cooperating with Israel, several of whom he admits to personally having strangled to death.

Negotiating with murderers is no path to peace. Benjamin Netanyahu understands this. Israel’s struggle is indeed America’s struggle. Let’s turn our prayers to support this brave leader.

Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.” Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now. To find out more about Star Parker and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators. com. COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS. COM