It has been just over a week since the assassination in Tehran of Ismail Haniyeh, a top Hamas leader, and the threats of retaliation by Iran have the entire world on edge. Nowhere is this more true than in Israel, where our friends and colleagues have never been so worried about their safety, security and future.

Overextended and exhausted from fighting terrorist organizations on two fronts and facing ever-increasing international criticism, they now must summon the courage and resolve to withstand an anticipated Iranian assault, which many expect to be far worse than the one they endured in April. They must also prepare for the potential of a major escalation in the current conflict as turmoil in the Middle East threatens to spread further.

For those of us living outside of Israel, inaction is not an option. It’s crucial that we regularly reach out to our Israeli family members, friends, and colleagues. It is vital that we let them know they are not alone and that we stand ready to help during these perilous times.

We’ve all experienced moments of feeling lonely and abandoned, wondering if anyone cared about us or if we would ever feel whole again. Our support can provide a much-needed sense of community and solidarity, reminding our Israeli friends that they have a global network standing with them. Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or any small form of communication, our efforts can make a significant difference in boosting their resilience and morale.

Given the maelstrom in which they find themselves, it should come as no surprise that our Israeli friends need our reassurance and encouragement. Anxieties are high, and it is more important than ever that we provide them with a steady and supportive presence.

We’ll end by leaving you with these words, articulated by Ronit Heid, and brought to our attention by GJ Advisory Board Member Deborah Weinberg, paraphrased below:

“If we lean into the story of Israel and the Jewish people being a people committed to taking care of each other, committed to mutual help, committed to solidarity, committed to hope and moral values, then we will be able to not only survive, but also really flourish. This is a moment where we’re not only fighting for our existence, we are fighting for who will we be… What will be the nature of the state of Israel, and what will be the nature of the Jewish people?”

Let us be the deciders of our own fate by making the most of the “moment.” Let’s make sure our Israeli family and peers feel the support of fellow Jews and allies across the globe, today and every day until this nightmare ends. Our solidarity can be a beacon of hope and strength, helping them navigate these challenging times with the knowledge that they are not facing their challenges by themselves.

Shabbat shalom, and may this be the week the hostages return home,

Team Global Jewry

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