In a recent interview Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut opined that the moral cost for Israel is too high when one considers the probability of 8,000 civilian deaths, including 3,000 children, as it continues it assault on Gaza. Other Democrat Party leaders are also suggesting a temporary ceasefire.

What would Murphy have advised in August 1945 when we decided to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki? Those two bombs killed an perhaps 226, 000 people, most of them civilians and tens of thousands of them being children. Yet, most Americans still approve the use of these atomic weapons since it obviated the need to invade Japan, an act that would have led to far more deaths than the bombs. Japanese military leaders were ready to sacrifice millions of military and civilian lives in defense of their homeland, and Allied planners expected that invading troops would suffer horrendous casualties.

Israel faces a similar moral dilemma. In the name of humanity, they could decide to back off. But if it did, there is no doubt that Hamas would continue its attacks. Hamas leaders make no secret of their desire to destroy the Jewish state and kill every Jew. Even a temporary ceasefire would embolden them. Under the circumstances, the Israelis have only one choice. The must destroy Hamas. Yes, thousands of civilian lives may be lost in the process, but in the long run it will mean preserving Israel and saving millions.