A wounded Israeli soldier is urging the UK not to repeat the mistakes of Neville Chamberlain but to stand against “the evil of Iran” much like Churchill did. Barak Deri, a 32-year-old Israeli Defence Force reservist, who sustained injuries that may leave him disabled for life, is in London to garner support for Israel in its ongoing struggles in the Middle East.
Deri emphasised that Israel’s fight is not just its own but also the West’s battle, stressing the importance of sending a clear message that another Holocaust cannot be an option. He highlighted the atrocities committed by Iran and Syria, condemning the ongoing suffering caused by these regimes and questioning whether history has taught us anything.
Speaking to The Independent, Deri recounted the harrowing events of 7th October last year when he was faced with a life-changing decision. He had to choose between rescuing his brothers at a music festival under attack by Hamas or obeying orders to assist victims at Kibbutz Be’eri, where many were held hostage. The day unfolded into an apocalyptic scene with bodies strewn around, atrocities committed, and families torn apart by violence.
Deri expressed his belief that peace is achievable but acknowledged that the events of that fateful day had shifted his perspective. While he longs for peace, his country’s fight for survival remains paramount. He critiqued the international response, particularly condemning calls to ban arms sales to Israel and protests against his country. He stressed the need for standing on the right side of history and the repercussions if the world fails to do so.
The soldier’s visit coincided with the first anniversary of the atrocity, with Sir Keir Starmer emphasising the need to address the threat posed by Iran. As Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits Middle Eastern countries to advocate for de-escalation, Deri’s message serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.