For Islamists in the Middle East, the high value Israel places on human life is considered a great weakness. From the mouths of figures like Hassan Nasrallah, Khaled Mashal, Yahya Sinwar, or Ali Khamenei, this is expressed in ideologically charged terms: “The Israelis fear death – we Muslims desire it. That is why we will defeat them.” This is not mere rhetorical calculation – it is their worldview. The West would do well to take seriously what they so openly proclaim. Yet, a fundamental contradiction arises, rarely addressed: If death is so glorified, why do these leaders hide underground? Why do they use people as human shields? Those who claim not to cling to life should have the courage to face death. The fact that jihadist leaders never do so, demanding it only of their followers, exposes the internal fracture in their thinking.

Israel is different. Israel chooses life – consciously, clearly, and without shame. Protecting life is not a weakness but an ethical strength. Deuteronomy 30:19 states:

“Choose life, that you and your offspring may...

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