Why Did I Write the Exodus of Ayala

What is Zionism?

Zionism is now a diry little word, much like term Communism. Over time, the word has deviated from its original meaning and lost its true essence.

Allow me to clarify its intended definition. Zionism simply signifies endorsing the establishment of a Jewish State, without any additional implications. In this context, Israel serves as the embodiment of this idea, being the only state rooted in Judaism's principles.

We can engage in discussions about the present government, its integrity, the Prime Minister, and various policies. However, at the core of Zionism lies merely the idea of supporting Israel's right to exist.

Historical Context of Zionism and the Exodus of Ayala.

Theodor Herzl, often regarded as the father of modern Zionism, catalysed the movement with his vision of a Jewish state. This was a response to the growing anti-Semitism in Europe and the dire need for a safe-haven for Jews. 

Why is a Jewish Safe-Haven Critical?

In my new novel, I aim to shed light on a seldom-discussed aspect of Jewish history, even within Jewish communities. During World War II, the Nazis forged an alliance with Arab governments in the Middle East, fueled by the same anti-Jewish sentiment prevalent in Europe. The Holocaust was so horrific that few openly discuss the hardships faced by Jews in the Middle East.

So, what exactly happened? Following the collapse of the Nazi regime, the Arab nations formed their own alliance, opposing the establishment of a Jewish state. The Jewish population residing in these neighboring countries lived relatively peaceful lives, with no intention of leaving their established homes or relocating to Israel.

However, their choice was cruelly stripped away when these Arab countries implemented Marshal Law, making it a capital offense to be a Zionist. Consequently, anyone of Jewish descent was automatically labeled a Zionist and therefore subject to arrest, conviction, and execution.

In my book, I delve into the story of a prominent Jewish merchant named Shafiq Abbas. The account I present is historically accurate. Was he a spy or a Zionist? According to the British government, which held control over the region at the time, there was no evidence to support these claims. In fact, Shafiq was in the process of building a new home for his family in Iraq, exhibiting no inclination towards Zionism. But even if he were, what crime would that constitute?

My own grandfather knew Abbas personally. He, too, was a prosperous merchant residing in Basra. Initially, he had no intention of leaving Iraq or relocating his family to Israel. However, when his business was vandalized, his children felt unsafe, and the government began making moves to seize his property, he had no choice but to find a way out of his homeland.

During this time, obtaining a visa to the US or any European country was virtually impossible, leading to devastating consequences. Many individuals, who were denied entry, faced persecution and death at the hands of the Nazis. One tragic example is the M.S. St. Louis incident in 1939, where the passengers were denied entry into the US, and sadly, most of them perished in the Holocaust. It is important to acknowledge that the US, along with many other governments, held strong antisemitic beliefs during that period. This hatred towards Jews is not a recent phenomenon, as it has been an ongoing struggle since their expulsion from Israel centuries ago.

The significance of Israel in the lives of Jewish people lies in this very struggle. In a world where they were often despised because of their religion, faith, creed, or race, Israel became the only place where Jews could live freely and embrace their identity without fear of hatred from their neighbors. Instead, in Israel you can hate your neighbor for a variety of other reasons for instance because they are loud, rude or neglect mowing their lawn.

I wrote the Exodus of Ayala to share my family's personal experience of being forced out of Iraq and finding refuge in Israel. It was during this time that every Arab nation either killed or expelled their Jewish populations, inadvertently reinforcing the importance of Israel, a cause they had been fighting against.

Final Thoughts

If you want to discuss the direction of the Israeli government or the viability of a two-state solution, those are fair topics for debate. However, it's important to understand the significance of Israel and what it has done for those who were forced to leave countries like Syria, Iran, Egypt, Iraq, and others. Israel has been a safe haven for Jews from Russia, Ethiopia, and many other places. It has an open-door policy for all Jews seeking refuge.

My novel doesn't delve into the politics of the West Bank, Gaza, or the Israeli government because that's not the focus. The point is, I wouldn't be writing this article without Israel, and I want the world to know that story. I hope The Exodus of Ayala opens your eyes to a lesser-known Jewish history, one that we can begin to understand.

Here's an interesting fact I want to leave you to mull over: there are more redheads in the world than Jews.