I was an IDF reservist stationed in the south of Israel. My base had received a new contingent of AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, and was testing them prior to deployment. Helicopters would ascend to 100 meters, hover for hours, and do instrument checks. A constant drone permeated our encampment.

The mood on the base was elated: ‘Apachim’ were cutting-edge weapons. My view was more sober. Whatever the military necessity, these weapons were part of the ever-escalating potency of violence in the Middle East.