Shalom to you all from my home in Israel – Tobi Lovv
Can I start by saying as someone living in the Land it comforts me to know of the special place Israel holds in your heart during these challenging days. I know you are following the situation on ground and I know you are praying and keeping Israel in your mind and on your thoughts.
In the early part of May this year I visited the UK on a 4-day trip hosted by our lovely partners at MDA UK. This UK trip was quite an experience for me, being my first to the UK since October 7th. The atmosphere felt unusual, calm but unusual with a sense of uncertainty among the Jewish and Christian communities. I have to say something that really caught my attention was the troubling normalization of concealing one’s identity. It was disheartening to learn that in the first weeks following Oct.7th in various parts of the UK, individuals are cautioned against wearing symbols that suggest a Jewish affiliation.
In a world flooded with information, there are disparities in truth.
To be candid, the situation in Israel and beyond is quite complex. However, after this visit, it has become evident to me that Israel must enhance its advocacy efforts. Essentially, there is a need to re-educate an entire generation. Living in an era where information is abundant, it’s surprising that one community is inundated with excess information while the other lacks enough to support its pro-Israel stance during times of conflict. Since October 7th, Israel has been grappling with challenges related to its public perception in the United Kingdom. At times, it can be overwhelming to stay abreast of all ongoing developments.
However, there’s an Organization making a significant but understated impact- Magen David Adom. In a recent interview with a Nigerian Christian UK based TV network, who by the way boasts of viewership of 2 Billion people worldwide , I spoke on the one aspect I perceive as the main core value of this organization- and that is compassion…