The letter to the editor by Yosef Blau regarding the prevention of humanitarian aid to Gaza (“The Complicated Border Protests,” February 15, 2024) left me despondent and shocked. This was not because of the content of the letter, which was well-reasoned. Nor was it because of the premise that serious issues deserve a full-throated debate. Rather, I was saddened to learn that rabbis would go so far as to suggest that humanitarian aid may even be forcibly stopped through violation of Shabbat. Really?
The letter was a necessary look at a series of actions which merit consideration by those who take seriously the moral imperatives of Judaism. Disagree with the author if you must, but consider cautiously what was contained in this brief, but powerful, letter. The author deserves our deep respect and appreciation. Thank you Jewish Link for the decision to publish it.
