The murder of Ari Fuld, H”YD, is a tragedy on so many levels – for his family, Israel, and world Jewry. It is particularly heartbreaking to note the bitter irony of him saying, “The only person who would be nervous about my guns are the terrorists who are looking to murder my people, and to them I say, be nervous and be scared! We as Jews should never apologize for our ability to fight back and defend ourselves.” (“Keep Breathing: A Testimonial,” September 20, 2018). 

Ari understood the difference in culture between the use of guns in America and Israel. In America, guns are used as offensive weapons, and unfortunately, mass shootings have been a staple in America for a long time, probably as a holdover from our wild west days. However in Israel, firearms are viewed as defensive weapons to prevent mass murder, and have been a necessary evil since the state was formed. It is for this principle that Ari’s instinct to protect other Jews under threat, automatically kicked in and he gave his life to save others against a terrorist attack.