Prof. Ariel Feldstein argues Jewish sovereignty creates essential distinction between Holocaust and October 7

Professor Ariel Feldstein explores the vital distinction between the helplessness of the Holocaust and the sovereignty of Israel during the October 7 attacks.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 3:58 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Israel Hayom

The Imperative of Historical Differentiation

The observance of Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2026 has brought to the forefront a complex debate regarding the comparative memory of Jewish catastrophes. Professor Ariel Feldstein argues that while the temptation to link the Holocaust with the events of October 7 is fueled by deep human pain and shared vulnerability, a clear distinction is mandatory for historical and moral clarity. According to Feldstein, the Holocaust remains a unique event in human history due to its systematic, institutionalized nature and the total absence of protection for the Jewish people at the time. He suggests that conflating these two eras risks undermining the significance of Jewish independence and the capacity for self-defense.

Sovereignty as the Defining Divergence

The primary difference identified by Feldstein lies in the transition from statelessness to sovereignty. During the 1940s, Jews across Europe and North Africa lacked a state, a military, or any institutional power to shield them from annihilation. Their fate was entirely dependent on the actions of others, creating a condition of absolute helplessness that defined the Holocaust. In contrast, Feldstein notes that the State of Israel reacted to the October 7 attacks as a sovereign entity with operational military capabilities. Even in moments of surprise and devastating loss, the Jewish people were not defenseless, a reality that reflects a profound historical transformation in their status.

The Responsibility of Modern Memory

Preserving the Holocaust as a singular, unprecedented event is viewed by Feldstein as a double responsibility for the current generation. By maintaining the memory of the Holocaust's unique helplessness, society can better process the trauma of current events through the lens of responsibility and decision-making. Feldstein warns that a form of memory that fails to distinguish between different historical periods risks creating a false sense of perpetual victimhood. According to his analysis, understanding the past accurately is the only way to effectively navigate the present and ensure that the tools of sovereignty are recognized for their historical weight.