This marks the 40-year anniversary of the 1972 Munich kidnappings which resulted in 11 Israeli coaches and athletes being murdered by Palestinian terrorists. Although tribute was paid to the victims of the 2005 terrorist attacks in London, there was no similar ceremony for the fallen Israelis last night. Despite repeated pleas from politicians and private citizens alike, the International Olympic Committee refused to work some type of tribute into the games. A small memorial ceremony will be held on August 6, but that’s not enough. Billions of people were watching last night’s opening festivities. The IOC should have taken the time to honor our friends. They did not and it was shameful.
The Israeli people must know that as Americans, we support them and we honor their loss – especially after last night’s debacle. We can’t speak for the rest of the spineless world community, but the United States stands with you.
As we watch this year’s games, it is imperative to remember those who lost their lives needlessly in 1972. We must not forget why they lost their lives and why Israelis, a long with the greater Jewish community, continue to be persecuted the world over.
Israel, your friends are with you.