How Jewish Federations of North America are Responding
Please urge your elected officials at the federal, state, and local level to speak out and make a clear and unequivocal statement in support for our ally Israel, and its right to defend itself.
Here is the link to drive your community to advocate: jfeds.org/OperationSwordsofIronActionAlert
Dear Members of the Jewish Community:
Over the weekend we witnessed one of the darkest days in the history of the State of Israel. On Shabbat, and during the sacred Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, Hamas terrorists launched an unprovoked and unprecedented massacre against Israel. More than 900 men, women, and children were massacred. Around 100, including children, mothers and Holocaust survivors were kidnapped and are held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.
Like so many of us in Israel, many of you know someone who has spent nights in a bomb shelter or has shared news about a missing loved one.
We all are appalled and horrified by the stories, pictures and videos coming out of Israel.
As we grieve together, we must remain resolved in our shared mission to defend our home against those who seek to dismantle our Jewish Homeland.
I must be clear. Now is only the beginning of our war to eradicate the threat posed by Hamas and Islamic Jihad to our civil population.
It will not be easy. Your support and solidarity for Israel will be critical in the coming days and weeks. I know you will stand up against those who do not believe in Israel’s right to exist.
I want to thank the many of you who have already reached out to us at the Consulate and in Israel to offer your support. Israel’s unwavering bond and commitment to the Jewish diaspora helps to maintain a spiritual connection that is woven into the fabric of our nation.
I know that together we will overcome this devastating time for Israel. I know this because good will always prevail over evil. And Israel will do whatever she needs to prevail.
Am Israel Chai.
On October 7, 2023, during the holiday of Shmini Atzeret, Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented attack on Israel from Gaza, firing thousands of rockets, breaching the country’s borders, killing dozens of Israelis, and wounding hundreds more. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened the cabinet to declare that Israel was at war to defend itself.
Jewish Federations stand in total and complete solidarity with Israel, which has every right to defend itself and protect its citizens.
Jewish Federations are responding, working with our core partners to support victims of terror, help rebuild damaged infrastructure, and address the immense levels of trauma caused by this horrific attack.