Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, some have accused me of propagating Hasbara. To be honest, I was unfamiliar with the term and had to research it. Hasbara, a Hebrew term lacking a direct English equivalent, is often translated as "explanation." It denotes an Israeli government outreach initiative aimed at educating other nations about Israel.
While some characterize it as propaganda designed to bolster a positive image of Israel, an in-depth analysis of the term itself provides additional insight. The prefix "ha," akin to the English definite article "the," categorizes it as a noun. The following "samech" character symbolizes a protective circle around Israel and the Jewish people (Yisrael). Lastly, "bara" means "to make." In concert, Hasbara can be interpreted as the act of providing explanations in defense of Yisrael.
So... am I a Hasbara agent? The question emerges from a considerable amount of time spent countering spurious narratives that have historically fueled a desire to wipe the Jewish people from the face of the Earth. My efforts extend to unveiling the contemporary echoes of Nazi remnants, elucidating their sinister agenda to "lead the white nations in a final crusade against the semite-led untermenschen." My commitment is also evident in defending Israel and Jews against fallacious narratives poised to incite a global Infifada against them.
I ardently advocate for the survival of the Jewish people... my people... confronting rhetoric and influence campaigns aimed at bringing about our demise.
Despite my lack of association with the Israeli government and not being an Israeli citizen, I find myself investing substantial energy in presenting others with factual, historically accurate information concerning Israel, countering myths that propagate the notion that Israel and Yisrael lack a rightful existence. Does this affiliation with the cause make me a de facto Hasbara agent? Perhaps. And, you know what? I'm cool with that.
Hasbara is not a dirty word.