Freedom is a Burden | Bernard-Henri Lévy on what Ails The West, and the Courage We Need To Save Liberty

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Bernard Henri Levy, or BHL, is a French philosopher, journalist, filmmaker, and public intellectual. He’s a leading member of the Nouveaux Philosophes movement, but not up in an ivory tower, traveling to warzones to bear witness and write history. His latest book, Solitude of Israel, is set for release in English later this year, reflecting on thoughts that have troubled him since October 7. 

When Hamas shocked the world with the October 7 Massacre, Israel felt embraced as never before. World leaders flew in to bear witness and express solidarity. Parliament buildings lit up in the colors of the Israeli flag. Israelis thought - that’s it, this time the world gets it and will back us as we fight for humanity against Hamas, as we fight to bring the hostages home. That optimism has given way to a sense of betrayal. The knowledge that the world wants to end this war with Hamas on its feet - and undermining Israel’s leverage to get the hostages back. SOLITUDE is Israel’s condition, but must it be its fate?

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