As we near the end of the current year, one event and one event only is in the thought of most Jews, as the news comes in from Lebanon. This has been a horrific year. War on 2 fronts and significant attempts to hurt Israel from Iraq and the Houthis.
We have differing views of the Israeli leadership but it is currently charged with making sure that Hamas can never strike again, not only as on October 7th but with the thousands of rockets sent over in the past years. Similarly the situation with Hezbollah who have caused damage of this and precious years such as to cause 60-80,000 Israeli to transport themselves away.
In the news they talk about Israel not "Grabbing" a ceasefire opportunity, making Israel always the aggressor, but they rarely say that Hamas will not sign any ceasefire that does not let them get scott-free of any restrictions, and because they wont, Hezbollah won't accept a ceasefire. Both communities are perfectly happy to let their citizens suffer in a horrific way. All of this is inspired by Iran.
I wonder what would happen if Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Egypt united to put together a committee which would use its great influence to say "No!" to Hamas and Hezbollah. Or are they too afraid of offending Iran and so sit idly by.
Carolyne Davis has written a fascinating commentary on the situation.
Surely the biggest prayer as we greet the New Year is that somehow a halt can be called to the situation and that all communities can live in peace and grow and prosper.
To greet in the New Year on a more pleasant line, is to think of the Rosh Hashana food. Corinne Rachelle has really surpassed herself. I had never heard of the Simanim before but Corinne has explained them all and included some delicious recipes for chicken dishes and salads and other nibble. To cap it all she then has included a recipe for Honey Cake - Diabetics beware!
On the sporting front, Jack Kaye has written the 5th chapter of his Albion Chronicle in which has describes the comings and goings which made up the draw last week with Nottingham Forest which included 3 sendings off including both managers!
Carolyne, Corinne and Jack - Thank you so much for your contributions over the past year.
We also include the Chabad summary of this week's Parsha, a chapter which sees the end of Moses.
I don't know if you have plans for Erev Rosh Hashana, but below we feature the dinner being organised by Rabbi and Penina Efune at the Ralli Hall - Why not book yourself in there?
However, for now I just wish you Shabbat Shalom and a good weekend