Yasser Arafat died at age 75, lying in bed surrounded by familiar faces. He left this world peacefully, unlike the thousands of victims he sent to early graves.
In a better world, the PLO chief would have met his end on a gallows, hanged for mass murder much as the Nazi chiefs were hanged at Nuremberg. In a better world, the French president would not have paid a visit to the bedside of such a monster. In a better world, George Bush would not have said, on hearing the first reports that Arafat had died, "God bless his soul."
God bless his soul? What a grotesque idea! Bless the soul of the man who brought modern terrorism to the world? Who sent his agents to slaughter athletes at the Olympics, blow airliners out of the sky, bomb schools and pizzerias, machine-gun passengers in airline terminals? Who lied, cheated, and stole without compunction? Who inculcated the vilest culture of Jew-hatred since the Third Reich? Human beings might stoop to bless a creature so evil -- as indeed Arafat was blessed, with money, deference, even a Nobel Prize -- but God, I am quite sure, will damn him for eternity.
Arafat always inspired flights of nonsense from Western journalists, and his last two weeks were no exception.
Derek Brown wrote in The Guardian that Arafat's "undisputed courage as a guerrilla leader" was exceeded only "by his extraordinary courage" as a peace negotiator. But it is an odd kind of courage that expresses itself in shooting unarmed victims -- or in signing peace accords and then flagrantly violating their terms.
Another commentator, columnist Gwynne Dyer, asked, "So what did Arafat do right?" The answer: He drew worldwide attention to the Palestinian cause, "for the most part by successful acts of terror." In other words, butchering innocent human beings was "right," since it served an ulterior political motive. No doubt that thought brings daily comfort to all those who were forced to bury a child, parent, or spouse because of Arafat's "successful" terrorism.
Some journalists couldn't wait for Arafat's actual death to begin weeping for him. Take the BBC's Barbara Plett, who burst into tears on the day he was airlifted out of the West Bank. "When the helicopter carrying the frail old man rose above his ruined compound," Plett reported from Ramallah, "I started to cry." Normal people don't weep for brutal murderers, but Plett made it clear that her empathy for Arafat -- whom she praised as "a symbol of Palestinian unity, steadfastness, and resistance" -- was heartfelt:
"I remember well when the Israelis re-conquered the West Bank more than two years ago, how they drove their tanks and bulldozers into Mr. Arafat's headquarters, trapping him in a few rooms, and throwing a military curtain around Ramallah. I remember how Palestinians admired his refusal to flee under fire. They told me: 'Our leader is sharing our pain, we are all under the same siege.' And so was I." Such is the state of journalism at the BBC, whose reporters do not seem to have any trouble reporting, dry-eyed, on the plight of Arafat's victims. (That is, when they mention them -- which Plett's teary bon voyage to Arafat did not.)
How is it possible to reflect on Arafat's most enduring legacy -- the rise of modern terrorism -- without recalling the legions of men, women, and children whose lives he and his followers destroyed?
And what about those victims? Why were they scarcely remembered in this Arafat death watch?
How is it possible to reflect on Arafat's most enduring legacy -- the rise of modern terrorism -- without recalling the legions of men, women, and children whose lives he and his followers destroyed? If Osama bin Laden were on his deathbed, would we neglect to mention all those he murdered on 9/11?
It would take an encyclopedia to catalog all of the evil Arafat committed. But that is no excuse for not trying to recall at least some of it.
Perhaps his signal contribution to the practice of political terror was the introduction of warfare against children. On one black date in May 1974, three PLO terrorists slipped from Lebanon into the northern Israeli town of Ma'alot. They murdered two parents and a child whom they found at home, then seized a local school, taking more than 100 boys and girls hostage and threatening to kill them unless a number of imprisoned terrorists were released. When Israeli troops attempted a rescue, the terrorists exploded hand grenades and opened fire on the students. By the time the horror ended, 25 people were dead; 21 of them were children.
Thirty years later, no one speaks of Ma'alot anymore. The dead children have been forgotten. Everyone knows Arafat's name, but who ever recalls the names of his victims?
So let us recall them: Ilana Turgeman. Rachel Aputa. Yocheved Mazoz. Sarah Ben-Shim'on. Yona Sabag. Yafa Cohen. Shoshana Cohen. Michal Sitrok. Malka Amrosy. Aviva Saada. Yocheved Diyi. Yaakov Levi. Yaakov Kabla. Rina Cohen. Ilana Ne'eman. Sarah Madar. Tamar Dahan. Sarah Soper. Lili Morad. David Madar. Yehudit Madar. The 21 dead children of Ma'alot -- 21 of the thousands of who died at Arafat's command.
(100) Wayne E. Cost, January 25, 2005 12:00 AM
Good Riddance
A snake in the grass is dead and the world is a better place because of it.
(99) Anonymous, December 8, 2004 12:00 AM
Allowed to rejoice
A previous visitor's comment questioned our right to rejoice upon Arafat's death, quoting as proof that Hashem told the angels not to sing when the Egyptians were drowning. HOWEVER -- the Jews themselves did indeed sing, and their song is part of the Torah (i.e., it was right and correct). Maybe for the angels who did not suffer it is improper to rejoice, but for the victims themselves it is eminently proper. I would say the same applies here.
(98) Marcelo Vasilcovsky, December 4, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat, the clever terrorist.
That's it. The article says it. Arafat was the most clever terrorist since terrorism was known in the world. While posing as "The poor leader fighting for the Palestinian cause", supported all terrorist organizations with the million dollars that he never ever used for his own civilians. I feel ashamed when i see people here thinking of him as "the example of a leader", like if they were talking of a hero, when he as a cruel assassin. He was the only terrorist the world could wasted tears for his death.
I just have pity of him. His soul is so full of cruel crimes, maybe he won't have any merits to go even to the Gueynom.
May G'd bless the soul of every victim of that cruel murdered, called Arafat.
(97) Kirby, November 27, 2004 12:00 AM
only a man has died
I cannot remember a time when arafat/ plo was not in the news. I am baffled that such a creature should recieve such praise the media and world leaders alike have heaped upon his corpse. The Nobel prize he was awarded is a slap in the face to any person capable of reason.
The Good News: arafat is dead
The Bad News: only a man has died. The terrorists that he spawned and nurtured yet live.
The power and wealth that arafat amassed will surely entice the next despot to take the same measures and use the same tactics. May God bless us that must endure what is to come and have mercy on those that suffer.
(96) Stephen, November 27, 2004 12:00 AM
To quote Rabin "Arafat never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity"
As a Jew I'm ambivalent about the passing of Arafat. I believe though not a popular notion for us that Irgun and Stern were considered terrorist organizations. Mandela was a terrorist and probably at the time others viewed Ghandi as a terrorist.
Arafat was cunning he raised the plight of Palestinians to the world and embodied their movement.
The failure of Arafat was he had a country and literally blew it up in his own face by starting the Infatah. He had a chance to show the world that there could be a democratic Arab country. He had a chance to give his people some wealth but instead diverted funds to his own accounts. The deaths and destruction Arafat brought to Jewish lifes was surpassed by the deaths and destruction to Palestinian lifes.
I am a Jew and understand why he's labeled a terrorist but as a Westerner I understand that he was a man that could have been a statesman. Indeed as Rabin said, "Arafat never missed an opportunity to miss an opportunity"
(95) julian, November 27, 2004 12:00 AM
ask not for whom the bell tolls
When any person dies, a piece of each of us dies too.
Your article is full of bitterness, the kind that fuels conflicts between nations. Where does it say in the Torah that one should publicly gloat at the death of another human being?
An eye for an eye makes everyone blind. May hashem bring greater wisdom and compassion to everyone involved in the Middle East conflict.
(94) kathy days, November 25, 2004 12:00 AM
arafat
I see that some are mad at president Bush for his comment. He is christian and most christians forgive at a persons death, no matter how bad they are. It is a well know fact that Bush did not like arafat and what arafat stood for.
I was watching a Fox news when arafat's death was announced. The topic was constant. Brig. Gen. Emery came on the TV and was screaming at the reporter for having so much on arafat and the day was veterans day. Emery said why all the fuss over a terrorist. May he burn in hell where he belongs. He killed may inocent people in Israel.
Hopefully, Emery's message got through some thick heads here in the US. arafat was a terrorist and should have been jailed like any other terrorist.
(93) Tony Sawyer, November 22, 2004 12:00 AM
Don't judge a book by it's cover
Inference is taken that non-jewish westerners think alike. Not so! I and a few friends are well aware of what Arafat has done. Sadly the deceived remain deceived, it's their choice!
(92) Anonymous, November 21, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat,.....a hero?!
No. I have always known that, that was simply not true. He was the leader of one of the modern worlds oldest and most notorious terrorist groups.Sensible people will not miss him. His only claim to "fame" was his ability to pose as a moderate, a man of peace, when in fact he had quite a differant agenda. I only hope that his successor is not worse.
(91) Kevin Chaffey, November 21, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat
At last the truth. How is it that when any terrorist dies the unthinking line up to praise him. It reminds me of De Valera, the Irish leader, signing the book of condolence in the German Embassy when Hitler died.
(90) Edy Meredith, November 20, 2004 12:00 AM
agreement
I could not agree with you more. I am not Jewish; however, I have strongly expressed this same opinion to many people; most if not all were in agreement with you. Thanks for putting this in print. (from Los Angeles)
(89) anne, November 20, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat
I feel very saddened that so many world leaders and even so called *Israeli*Arabs could seem to care less about the victims of this man Arafat.I think about poor souls like David Hatuel who lost his beloved pregnant wife and 4 young daughters a few months back,and Avi Ohayon who lost his wife and 2 little boys a few years back,or the surviving Schijveschuurder children who lost their parents and their siblings in the Sbarro bombing.My heart just hurts so much for these precious,wonderful people.Why doesn't anyone care about their pain and grief? Everyone seems to care about the poor Palestinians,but no one cares about these victims.My heart is mainly with these victims.I will always pray for Israel and for your people.Shame on this sinful,cruel world for honoring a shameless,unrepentant murderer and forgetting about his victims.I know it must get very discouraging to think that once again the world is on the side of evil.But take consolation in knowing there really are alot of people in America especially Christians who believe in the book you wrote called the Bible that still care about you and your people but most of all always remember you have a very loving,powerful God who loves you and is watching over your land and your people to this day.
(88) Beverly Kurtin, Ph.D., November 20, 2004 12:00 AM
The "Trinity"
Haman, Hitler, Arafat.
What more needs to be said?
(87) Anonymous, November 20, 2004 12:00 AM
Mr. Jacoby quoted President Bush out of context, changing the meaning of bush's statement.
By now Mr. Jacoby may be aware that President Bush said "God bless his soul" sarcastically when told of Arafat's passing. As James Taranto pointed out some weeks ago,while he was still Governor Bush, when told of the execution of murderer Karla Faye Tucker, Bush said "May God bless Karla Faye Tucker and may God bless her victims' families", as though he was saying abouut them, "it's good that they are dead".
(86) Jorge Furtado, November 20, 2004 12:00 AM
A terrorist
I fully agree with the article.
I allways remind Yassir Arafat as a terrorist.
I personaly feel ashime that Portugal sent the Minister of Foreign Affairs to represent our country.
(85) Thresa, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Justice will be in GOD's hands now!
This world and it's people may not have crushed Arafat and his evil, but GOD will.. Justice is now in His hands!!
(84) Jim C, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Thanks for the truth
I just wanted to thank you for reporting the truth about Arafat and his innumerable attrocities commited against Jews and the rest of humanity. You label Arafat as what he really was: the mastermind behind 9/11-type terror, and by NO MEANS a canidate for ANY peace prize, let alone the supposedly HIGHEST one of all. I'm also glad you have chosen to stand appart from your liberal counterparts and be, unlike MOST "western journalists", a REAL journalist by reporting the TRUTH. Keep it up, and watch out for the man who is going to soon pick up Palestian pieces and use them to make a peace agreement with Isriel in the name of the EU. His name is Javier Solana. He is NOT who he claims to be (A peace maker) no matter how convicing his words may seem.
Keep an eye open, and thanks again,
Jim C.
(83) Michael Smith, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Disturbing anti-semitism
It's a sad fact that few non-Jews are aware of the atrocities of Arafat and his cronies. This is largely to do with the appalling bias of the BBC and other news organisations - the implication isthat Jewish deaths don't matter. Those who, like me, are not Jewish must make sure that people understand what is really going on in Israel and explode the myth of so-called 'Palestine'
(82) Mario Reyes, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat died peacefully, that is true, but now his soul is in the inferno, he is paying all he made in this world, and soon will be the big judge. God bless Israel!
Los Angeles, California. USA
(81) Miryam, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Justice will be Hashem's
I do not think Arafat had a peaceful death, just because someone is in a coma it does not mean that they are not suffering. I believe that noone lives this world without paying for the damage they have done. I think Arafat was suffering in silence since he could not speak due to his coma status or so they say he was. The Almighty will avenge the innocent blood spilled by this horrible man, a terrorist who went by the name of Yasser Arafat, vengeance belongs to the Almighty and Jewish blood is not cheap! Arafat's judgement has only just begun.
(80) jason f soon, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
The world needs to be reminded on arafat's evil doings
God bless Israel and His people who believe in Him.May Israel have peace forevermore.Justice shall always prevail and evil will always go down....God bless this innocent souls that died.
(79) Valentin Vansteenkiste, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Nietzsche...
The well known German philosopher Nietzsche once quoted : "When I started to lie then everybody believed me...".
You can link this to Arafat as well !!!
(78) Raymond Wilson, November 19, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat in Hell
The evil ideas of terrorism, the killing of innocent old men women and children.I wonder how the devil is rewarding Yasser Arafat. Perhaps he will be reincarnated and return to earth as a fly, ready to be thrashed by an Israeli.
(77) Michael Baumgartner, November 18, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat the monster
I agree 100% with the article and I feel that the world has forgotten all that have died at the hands of this evil man and his hench-men. We should first remember those that have died before we utter the monsters name ever again.
(76) Linda Silver, November 18, 2004 12:00 AM
Thank you!. Your article speaks the truth..the sad truth!
I was sickened by the commentaries of the the so called dignitaries, ie: US president, the fact that canada actually sent anyone to pay respects. I had to call my friends to make sure I was hearing and seeing correctly.. I wanted to call my rabbi to find out his thougths. for him to tell that I was not going crazy..that the civilized world leaders were not required to pay respects. I resented that my tax dollars were sending reepresentation from Canada. I know it's politics but this is outrageous..paying repect to a murderer for what for public opinion. His bieng made this world an uglier, scarier and more hateful place..thank you for the sanity and clarity of your article.
(75) David H., November 18, 2004 12:00 AM
The World A Better Place
Thank you for your article! The world is a better place without this distorted, murdering mad man who was resposible for the deaths of many innocents. I wept once again at the memory of the precious lives that were lost at the hand of this evil man.
(74) Helen Stanbro, November 18, 2004 12:00 AM
Also disappointed
While everything you say about Arafat may well be true, it is still disappointing to see such gloating delight taken in the death and possible damnation of another human being. At Passover, we are reminded that even the angels were rebuked for gloating over the death of the Egyptians: "The ministering angels were about to chant songs of praise as the Egyptians were drowning. The Almighty rebuked them, 'My creatures are perishing in the sea, and ye are ready to sing.' " We may indeed feel relief that a menace is no longer present (though what worse may succeed him, we can only guess), but taking active pleasure in the final destruction of a wasted and ruined life seems unworthy of someone who is fortunate enough to have been taught better. Praising the Just Judge Who set the limit to his days and selected this time to remove him from this life would be the appropriate response, if one (entirely understandably) cannot rise above one's personal feelings enough to pray for mercy toward the merciless.
(73) Jennifer, November 17, 2004 12:00 AM
I am disapointed
Mr. Jacoby, while I appreciate your article, I am disapointed by some of the comments that have been made. In condemning a man for judging and murdering a select group of people, how can you turn around and make derogatory comments about homosexuals? Honestly, I am disgusted. After all of the hatred and bigotry the Jewish people have endured, it is nothing less than hypocritical to promote hatred and/or negative stereotypes towards any group of people. I sincerely hope that people show you more tolerance and acceptance than you are showing them...
(72) Wajeehuddin A. khan, November 17, 2004 12:00 AM
death of a mass murdere
Though I am a Muslim I agree with Mr. Jacoby's view here is man who is being revered for being a mass murderer. The man who coined the term Suicide attacks. Who murdered and killed without remorse. The only contribution he ever made to the world was bring instability and use it for their own advantage .
(71) Anonymous, November 17, 2004 12:00 AM
STRONG!!!
I agree with every single word of yours!!! Your article is written very well and says exactly what we all must make sure to yell out loud!
(70) Ariel, November 17, 2004 12:00 AM
Damn right.
I agree on everithing. I have to also comment that i am Jew and never heard of what happened in ma'alot, i just hear this hypocryt and incult world praising murderers, like they wouldnt care about investigating the facts. Don't be like this, get informed people!
(69) Heidi, November 17, 2004 12:00 AM
To Jennifer
Say, WHAT??? Are you certain you are commenting on the correct article? Nowhere are homosexuals mentioned.
(68) Susan M. Gadson, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
True enough.
(67) Dayan, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
Arfat reaped what he sow
Arfat did not die peacfully. Just imagine his own people doing preparation for buring him before he died. That was perfect death sentence given by G-D to arfat. He laid restless for months before he was taken to hospital.
(66) Anonymous, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
GOOD FOR YOU!!!
I can't believe the nonsense I read in the paper and hear on TV about someone who was little more than a common thug! Arafat was no "leader" - he was a conniving, evil con man.
(65) Batsheva, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
please forward this
Can this be sent to all the media outlets, newpapers, etc, it's what needs to be said. Hashem Yikom Domom, and may we only hear good news.
(64) Anonymous, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
If murder doesn't discredit him to his followers and the world, how about this?
I don't watch TV but do listen to Talk Radio. I'm actually surprised by how my people have echoed the sentiment that the media isn't talking about what a monster he was. I can think of three conservative talk show hosts who told it like it is. What boggles my mind is that no one in any of the media has embraced the task of discrediting that sorry excuse for a human being's legacy. (I Mean other than the fact that the world accepts that it was ok for him to kill Jews-excuse me, Israelis) It is well documented that he was a rabid homosexual with a voracious appetite. And that his personal body guards were also for personal pleasure, not to mention that they would regularly abduct young boys for his pleasure. It is not mysterious disease the he has died from. AIDS is quite his due and a fitting end to him. His coreligionists and in particular the fanatic jihad groups he started, fostered and supported can not tolerate such aberrant behavior. And if the truth were to be brought out it might mitigate their “idolization” of this despot.
(63) Gary Alan, King, November 16, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat is Alive and Well...
As long as the lie of a "Palestinian People" remains, the monster will remain among us. That travesty is his legacy. I need not contemplate where this generation's Haman currently resides... God's wrath is forever fully upon him even though we mortals refused to judge him. Unfortunately, it is far from over yet. I see a new Arafat - richer and far smoother than the one we knew - woo the media and promise the lie that Israel will embrace, only to learn that far-worse destruction awaits.
(62) Anonymous, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
we don't REALLY know how he left this world
There is more to life and death than meets the eye. I trust that "the monster" has been facing all the many deeds that he created in this world in ways he (and we) never imagined.
Blessed is the Judge of Truth.
Thanks for the article Mr. Jacoby. It's nice to hear your voice among the insane voices who are praising Arafat.
(61) linda, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
what is real
When I read about Arafat I can't believe sometimes that some people live in the same world that I do. How can any one think this man is a hero. What has he done for his "people". They are still living in the same horrible conditions for the last 60 years. Mean while his very overweight and very blonde wife lives in luxuary in Paris receiving 100,000 a month to support her lavious tastes. What is wrong with this picture, why am I so outraged.
(60) Marion Rosen, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Baruch Dayan Emet
I didn't like Arafat any more than you do. But yes, G-d bless his soul is just as appropriate a response as "baruch dayan emet". It recognizes that ultimately everything is from above, even if we don't understand it. G-d is the true judge, and Arafat's soul can use all the help it can get.
(59) DavidK, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat in the Torah, Where does an Arafat come from?
Refer to Deuteronomy 9, verse 5: "Know that it is not for your richeousness that the Lord your God has given you this good land to possess it, for you are a stiffnecked people (Oref Atah)"
Remove "Hey" of Atah and you have Arafat (Alef,Resh,Peh,Alef,Taf). Let us not be rebelious against Hashem. But for their wickedness they will be thrown out of the land, not unfortunatly due to our richeousness. Us being stiff Necked with Hashem results in Arafat - may his name be cut off.
(58) Don Burton, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Thank God someone is telling the truth!
I am glad someone still considers this man a terroristThe media has always made "darlings" out of demons like Arafat. Does this mean in a few years we will be asked to fall in love with Bin Laden? Wake up and realize most of the main stream movie and media moguls don't have our best intrest at heart and start making your money match your beliefs. Thank you Mr. Jacoby for reminding us of the destruction this demon has done. God Bless You.
(57) sun, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
At last he is dead
I agree with the author that Arafat was a monster. He was like Hitler. I believe that anyone who kills innocent people especially children is a monster. Every life is a gift from G-d and none of us has the right to take away that gift. I'm glad he is dead. I pray that the pain and suffering of Israel will end soon. I hope these terrorists will stop blowing themselves up and killing innocent people because it's not worth it! I wish they knew that life is precious. I hope that no one will be like Arafat or far more worst.
(56) Anonymous, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
I agree completely
Thank you for writing the truth to the world. YES! Arafat was a terrorist and an evil man. He will and deserves to burn in hell. Let us now pray that a right and just Govt. will be put in place and that finally we can stop hearing "10 dead, 37 wounded" and other such headlines.
(55) Moshe Jacknin, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
I thought this was a very poignant, well writtnen article.
as stated in the one line summary
(54) Efraim Lujan, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
The truth spoken
Thank you for speaking the truth. It angers me to hear Arafat spoken of in the same awe as one would hear of a humanitarian and caring human being spoken about. How soon we have forgotten the athletes in the olympics in Germany. I remember that day as if it were today and thinking, how could this have happened. In some weird way, I wondered if the German governemnt had turned a blind eye to the terrorist network in their midst. Now hearing the French Prime minister extole Arafat reminds me that at one time,surprise was voiced that it was Germany and not France that committed the Holocaust. Surely Mr. Prime Minister there must be something within you to acknowledge the evil that Arafat did, not only to innocent Jews, but also in a sort of tangent the evil he has perpetrated on the Palestinians themselves by commiting them to a life of terror rather than peace. What awaits the future of Palestinian and jewish relations is impossible to know. What is certain is that people like the prime minister of France and journalist who so cavalierly extol the praises of a terrorist will continue even with the likes of Osama Bin Laden's.
(53) Gerry, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
What should President Bush have said about Arrafat dying?
...."Good ridance to bad rubbish!"...or
"Find comfort that hell is welcoming another citizen!"...Arrafat was a murderous thug, but if President Bush said it, the only thing that would come out of it would be more turmoil. Wishing God's blessing upon his soul was off, indeed. Mercy upon his soul would have seemed more appropriate. The fires of hell I would not wish upon my worst enemy, even Arrafat.
(52) Ernesto Luna, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
The Father of Terror
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ARTICLE.THE WORLD DOESN'T SAY THE TRUTH BECOUSE THEY HATE GOD'S CHOSEN PEOPLE.ARAFAT LIKE HITLER ARE PAYING FOR WHAT THEY DID THEY ARE BURNING IN HELL FOR EVER
(51) Deborah Courage, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
good riddance nasty murdering old man.You lived 75 years too long.
Thank you for this reminder.I never want to forget this monster.Arafat's name will forever be linked to terrorism and the murder of children.That should be his legacy and none other.
(50) Anonymous, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
the world has gone mad!
This must be the days of Ikvesa Meshicha - when the Messiah will be coming! Mr. Jacoby is 100% right. Mr. Busch's comment re Arafat's y''s soul is ridiculous - he had no soul.
(49) Mitchell, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Wow, I have never heard of this side of the story. I had no idea that Yasser Arafat had done all that stuff. All I hear across the news is good stuff, he tried to make peace. But now that I hear the real story its amazing that so many people are sad for his death. Everyone worshipping a terrorist. Even George Bush who has promised to destroy it. When you really think about it, we live in one sick world.
(48) robert, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
our world is a better place with Arafat gone
it happens almost daily in the world that some murderer is put to death for the crimes they have committed. Only Arafats death seems alittle late.
(47) John Rosene, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
God Bless Arafat
Jacoby's article is right on except I prefer to think that George Bush was being sardonic and in effect thanking Arafat for getting out of the mideast picture. Much like saying "thank God he's gone" - at least I hope his statement was misinterpreted...
(46) bshollem ben-akiva, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
bury his nobel peace (sic) prize in his family plot in gaza
bury his nobel peace (sic) prize in his family plot in gaza, in the presence of all the duped presidents and kings who rushed to demean themselves by attending his funeral in cairo.
(45) Anonymous, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
The courage to be 'politically incorrect'
Dear Mr. Jacoby,
Thank you and Bless you for being brave enough (in this topsy-turvy crazy world we live in)to call a spade a spade. Arafat Yemach Shmo V'Zichro was nothing less than as you described him - a hate-filled monster descended most probably from Amalek. No words of praise or subtle admiration should be cast in the direction of such filth.
I was crying when I read the names of those precious children taken from us. May Hashem avenge their deaths. Thank you for reminding me of what was taken from Am Yisroel, by this evil creature. May his soul continue to burn in Hell.
(44) Taz Wilhite, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Bon Voyage Mr. Arafat
Arafat's soul will reside in Hell alongside those of other "great" and "enlightened" leaders such as
Pol Pot, Stalin, and Hitler. I find it unbelievable how any one can feel sorry for this man after all he has done to the Israelis and his own people.
(43) May McCormick, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
An over due meeting in hell!!!!!!!
I forgot to say that when Arafat met up with Hitler and Stalin along with many other mass murderers in hell it was probably a hell raising time of the meeting of their murderous minds and satin probably will have a difficult time staying in control!
(42) Anonymous, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Dear Sir or Madam:
In my opinion, Arafat did not die in peace. He will get his punishment in Gehinnom.
(41) Dennis M. Starkman, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
Has the world press gone mad or just corrupt?
Amazing coverage of this evil person's final hours and funeral. I have been shocked by the lack of objectivity in the world media: israeli and jewish viewpoints have been barely asked. BBC and CNN were terrible.
Specially nauseating is the spanish reaction and the national support given to this person by France.
Spain has expressed such deep resentment at the world for not caring enough for the suffering endured, which has been inflicted upon them by ETA. In spite of this, Spain treats this evil organization as being heroic.
The issues of his monetary responsibilities have hardly been addressed.
It was also a good deed by Mr. Jacoby, to remember the names of the children of Maalot.
(40) Moss Posner, November 15, 2004 12:00 AM
A salute to Arafat is nothing short of grotesque
I recall the anxiety we all felt in 1967, and the relief thereafter. Similarly, in I believe 1955 (the tank war) 1970's (Yom Kippur War) and so on, through the Intefada. I recall the hundreds of dead innocents, no small percentage of which were children. And all this comes down to one pivotal constant:
Arafat.
Arafat--the Father of Terrorism. A man who has created a generation of maniacal youth. A man who was brought back from exile in Tunis, a man who was given intellectual, monetary and military support from those who he would destroy. Yet, ironically enough, he is made worse--if even such a thing is possible--by the "moral averaging" of the bleeding hearts and the jealous: If the Palestinians appear to be the worse for the conflict, then Israel must be taking unfair advantage. This is because Most people cannot conceive that the Israelis basically are constituted of the spiritually and
intellectually educated, and that they are actually capable of simultaneous power and restraint as a consequence, that collateral damage and its implications are actually their ongoing concern. In short, frightened ignorant people are a cultural consequence and are beyond repair as adults. This--is the root of the reactions. Attitudes towards Israel are always a moral baarometer--G-d help us all.
(39) Shmuel Hager, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
The Truth At Last
Thank you Mr. Jacoby, for a fitting tribute to the father of modern terrorism.
(38) A.Dvir, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Right on
Thank you for writing an article which finally puts a fair and accurate spin on Arafat's "legacy." Other journalists would do well to read this.
(37) ROBERT K SSEBATTA, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
I really dont know why God would let such a brutal murderer to live for such a long time.God's ways are not our ways.
(36) Nissim, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Not a peaceful departure
Dear Sir,
Your article is indeed thought provoking. However, I disagree that Arafat died a peaceful death. He struggled for months and in the final months became insane and finally died a slow, painful and staggering death.
(35) Arthur A., November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
What no one says
You're right. In Europe, no one talks about Arafat's role as a mass murderer. Those of us who want peace wish him the same he wished for innocent israelis.
(34) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Farewell to a monster
There is only one befitting comment to be made on Arafat: Good riddance to bad rubbish and may he rot in hell for the terrible things he did on earth.
(33) Jo, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
hit the nail on the head
Thanks so much for writing the truth. It made me sick to see so many people mourning for Arafat. And thank you for being truthful about his eternity, I feel the same way.Why are they so blind to his true self? And I feel Bush was a true hypocrite to utter those words........
(32) Rodrigo, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
The
That monster's greatest merit was to kill jews and that is the reason why the world loves him. It seems as if the enemies of the jews are the friends of the world. Had he been the enemy of the Germans or the Chinese, he and his people would have long been exterminated. I rejoice in his death and I pray for the speedy death of all his cronies.
(31) J Glover from USA, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat
Chilling...... thank you Mr. Jacoby for not only remembering but making us all remember the innocent. May God bless you. P.S. and about Mr. Bush's comment, dont blame me, i voted for the other guy
(30) D. Ash, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
The Monster is gone!!!!!
Your article is whole-heartedly agreed upon by thousands.Its just too bad that others dont do a reality check with regards to this animal. With all do respect, I think Pres. Bush knows the true realities of what this animal had done while on earth. Arafats soul is NOW in the hands of the Creator. I think we all know where HE WAS SENT. And I think that is what the Pres meant.
(29) esther, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
finally, some truth
After watching both a C.B.C. and a C.N.N. eulogy on Arafat, which was an insult to any person who knew the real facts, it is refreshing to read the truth about this monster. Over and over, I ask myself why reporters praise and honour Arafat, a man who murdered, stole and committed crimes beyond belief. We need more articles like this to reach the naive and duped public.
Thank you.
(28) mary makias, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
i believe george bush said regarding arafat's death, "may G-d have mercy on his soul"....i could be wrong but i do not believe he blessed arafat
(27) Jacob Zalmanov, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
bs"d
shalom!
this proves what we know for many generations:wh are alone in the world
"am levadad ishkon" but this is a brochah
(26) Sanford Goodman, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Well Written Article
Thank you for telling the truth about Yassir Arafat, yemmach shmo zicrono. May he and all who praised him be condemned. May his neshamah be tortured and his name and memory be forever exterminated and may this be the permanent demise of the PLO.
(25) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Arafat's only positive contribution.
Well, now wait a moment.... Okay, so it's true that Arafat was directly or indirectly responsible for the death of many children. And he did start mayhem and terror at the Olympics. Yes..., he did loot many millions (probably billions) from the relief funds he received for refugees. Okay, yes, he did not build a single school, hospital, or real public service while he wielded power. And so on, and so forth...but you have to admit that he brought forth the fashion statement of a cool head scarf and a scruffy beard. Why didn't Barbara Plett mention that?! (Name withheld because I'm too embarrassed.)
(24) Lisa Traiger, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
thank you
Of all the press on this mass murderer, your article is the first one I've seen that elaborates on the horrors this individual inflicted on people during his life as opposed to the momentary occurance of his death.
All the respect to you, Jeff Jacoby.
(23) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Right on
Reading the media reports after Arafat's death was completely nauseating. His victims were ignored, his lying, cheating, stealing from his own people were not mentioned...what in the world is wrong with the world?
(22) HERMAN GRUBER, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
COMMENT ARAFAT
THANK YOU SIR FOR TELLING THE TRUTH ABOUT THIS DEMON POSSED MAN...HE IS NO DOUBT FINDING OUT THE TRUTH NOW,,BURNING IN HELL REAPING WHAT HE HAD SOWN ON EARTH...IM GLAD HES GONE.....SHALOM.....
(21) Phelippe A. Salazar, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
My comments on your article
AMEN
(20) Bill Toews, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Rigth on
I pity the leaders who thought and told the world that Arafat was a good man. They to will have to answer to God for the stand they toke on the side of evil.
(19) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
On a Blessing
When one asks God to bless, To me, God will bless that one in the way He knows that one needs blessed, blessings in disguise. That may not be in the way most people may consider it a blessing. Blessings come and are given in many different ways and forms. God knows exactly what Arafat needs for every Horror he comitted, and also for the ones who have praised and have elevated him. We all eventually do get what what is needed
(18) Ernest, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
For him, there is no peace without lots of blood, death.
Saying NO to Barak, That person lost his chance of a lifetime to grant peace and a country to his fellow arabs.
He was crystalclear that for many of his fellow arabs/muslims a "Negociated Peace" - a peace with no jewish or arab blood or deaths - is no real peace and no way to legitimate an independent Palestinan state. He made no effort to change that attitude!
I respect death (of any faith), but for me, I have little or none admiration for what he was when alive, sadly, for millions he's now a martyr.
(17) JOE GORDON, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
a dead terrorist!
Good to be rid of the vermin, pest, & fly on the back of zionism!
(16) sfgurman, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Absolutly agree. I'm going to send this article to the principal Newspapers in Argentina (where I live) to show the OTHER side, the REAL one. (They use to be pro-palestinian)
(15) Markoosie Patsauq, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
In company of his type
Yassir Arafat has joined Hitler, Stalin, Gengis Khan, Pol Pot on the place known but to God.
(14) Usaia Bulai, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Fool beyond death
Our local newspaper today has a cartoon with Arafat standing on thin cloud fully wired with explosives demanding the Gatekeeper in Heaven his share of Cloud or the place goes up.
A terrorist like Arafat will remain a FOOL even beyond death.
(13) Charlie Miller, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Pres. Bush got it right
I believe that Mr. Jacoby missed the point in his condemnation of President Bush's remarks regarding the demise of Arafat. President Bush did state "May
G-d bless his soul." However, President Bush also used this same language when he refused to commute the sentence of convicted murderer from Texas, Carla Faye Tucker. She was executed. President Bush meant in both instances that the soul of a human being is pure and stems from G-d's providence. Nonetheless, the actual human body is the product of our own choices and values. President Bush did not say May G-d bless Yasser Arafat or Carla Faye Tucker--he understands clearly the distinction between each of their horrific decisions and their souls that have since returned to heaven.
(12) Rodolfo, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Who are We?
As much as our ways are definitely not Gods ways, or even if we don't think Arafat's life was good for humanity, Who are We to judge upon him, to cast such harsh judgements towards him??
God sent him to this world, and only He can judge upon his actions.
(11) Max Rogel, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
The truth matters.
Thank you for telling the truth. We as Jews have always valued the truth above all else. Arafar embodied the Arab cause for land just as Hitler embodied the German cause for "lebensraum". And just as Hitler was a butcher, so was Arafat.
(10) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
AraRat's Death
I have heard on radio talk shows and word from others individuals that NoSir AraRat was a full blown Queer and that he died from AIDS, any truth to this rumor?
(9) Donald F. Dutkowski/Chilliwack Canada, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Monster!
Thank you for the TRUTH. Living in Canada we hear much too much from the Phillistine side and not enough from the People Of G--.
Blessings on You ALL,
Don in WestCanada.
(8) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Rest in hell...
Hello;
A realistic, perceptive, and self-evident take on the passing of this self-annointed, death worshipping, cynical "leader".
(7) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Double Standards
Osama bin Larden was responcible for the attack on the World Trade Center in which thousands died and the Western World condemed seeking an end to his terrorist activities. Arafat's reign of terrorist activities, indirectly or directly, killing more than twice the number of victims, yet he's considered a hero, a freedom fighter, a statesman, by the world. Go figure?
(6) Ephraim Feigelstock, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Actions speak louder than words
President Bush has refused to deal with Arafat for many years, thereby demonstrating his true feelings for the terrorist. We should show appreciation for that. No other President has done that. Villification for one off the cuff remark demonstrates a lack of perspective.
(5) B. Ross, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Only a tolerant, misguided, compassionate liberal could admire this beast. When our secular society disavows any standards of human conduct the media will determine right and wrong.
(4) josh kamen, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
arafat analogy to esau
Nice to hear the truth about such a deceitful person. A wonderful sermon comparing Arafat to Esau can be found on AdathIsrael.com
(3) Gail Issen, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
I'm crying ...
I'm crying ... not because Arafat is dead, but because of the many things that would have been ... in a better world.
Arafat's death is a blessing not only to the Jewish people, but to the entire world.
(2) Israel G. Fuentes, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
one good thing at last!
I really think it was good that Arafat had died "peacefully", that way, the poor people whom he devoted his life to fooling won't say it was the Jewish people who killed him. I'll add to Bush's words: "G-d judge his soul"
(1) Anonymous, November 14, 2004 12:00 AM
Very informative.
Arafat has been lauded as this great leader and freedom fighter, but he was a big fraud. Thank you for memorializing the children who fell victim to his terrorism.