For partnership, mutual will is needed; for violence one is enough.

Two for tango, one for aggression.

Yossi Sheriff
the dichotomy between the desire for peace and the necessity of preparedness

In the pursuit of harmony and understanding, mutual consent is essential; however, in the use of aggression, the will of a single individual can dictate the course of events. In my homeland, Israel, the yearning for peace is a noble sentiment. Yet, the reality we face often presents a stark contrast to this aspiration. It's crucial to acknowledge that while desiring peace is virtuous, it also requires a recognition of the actual circumstances. If the other party does not share this desire for peace, our own wishful thinking can inadvertently become an obstacle to our preparedness and alertness, putting us at risk.

Therefore, while I personally hold onto the hope for peace, I am also acutely aware of the harsh realities that surround us, not only in Israel. This awareness shapes my understanding that approaching an armed adversary with only good intentions and without caution is dangerous. It's a delicate balance between maintaining hope for peace and being realistically prepared for situations where such hopes might not be reciprocated.