SIXTY years ago, on May 14, 1948, the state of Israel was born.
The dream of Jews to return to their homeland after 2,000 years of
exile was finally fulfilled. Alas, the dream was immediately
followed by a nightmare: The next day, the new nation was attacked
by its neighbors. The first of many Arab-Israeli wars had begun.
Born into violence, these wars have left an indelible mark on the
Israeli psyche, as well as on its image in the world. Israel is
widely perceived as a war-ridden country.
War has for far too long defined us - defined our population,
national boundaries, unity, and, most important, our quest for
peace. From the War of Independence to the last war with Hezbollah
on our ...