Submitted by the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati
The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati stands in solidarity with the people of Israel during these harrowing times. We are deeply grieved and profoundly concerned by the ongoing crisis that has engulfed our extended family in Israel.
It has been exactly 50 years and a day since the outbreak of the Yom Kippur War, a moment in history etched with the bravery and resilience of the people of Israel. Today, as we mark this somber milestone, we are once again called upon to stand with our Israeli brethren in the face of an unfolding crisis.
Early this morning, on the holiday of Shemini Atzeret, Hamas — the terror organization which governs Gaza — launched a brutal attack on Israel on multiple fronts. Hamas launched thousands of rockets into cities in the country’s center and South, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. It is reported that dozens of terrorists from Gaza have infiltrated towns in the South of Israel and shot indiscriminately at innocent civilians, and we find ourselves in a state of deep concern.
This onslaught has been met with a resolute Israeli response under the banner of “Operation Swords of Iron.” A special state of emergency has been declared in Israel. An extensive mobilization of IDF reserves was called up, and IDF and security forces are now engaged in protecting the citizens of Israel and maintaining their security.
Our hearts ache as we report the mounting casualties, with hundreds of people rushed to hospitals and countless homes and institutions devastated. The extent of this devastation is truly disgraceful and abhorrent, and we stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel during this unimaginable and agonizing time.
The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati is 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. Our abiding support through our annual campaign makes it possible for our primary overseas partners, The Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), to respond immediately when emergencies like this take place.
Additionally, we express our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Mike DeWine and other elected officials both locally and nationally, who have offered their deepest sympathies to the victims and their families of this unprovoked attack on Israel. We commend their support for the people of Israel and their condemnation of this unjustified act by Hamas.
As part of our commitment to support Israel in this hour of need, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati is activating the Swords of Iron Fund. This fund will swiftly channel resources to our global partners’ immediate humanitarian efforts in Israel, including providing shelters and enhancing security in high-risk areas, ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations, and offering trauma support for those affected by this tragic situation.
While we are in the early stages of assessing the situation and the evolving needs, we want to assure our community that we are committed to providing the necessary support and assistance during this crisis. We continue to pray for the peace of the victims and all citizens of Israel. We will keep our community updated as the situation develops and after we have assessed various needs. We urge everyone to stay connected and follow our updates on social media.
Israel has faced adversity before, and the Jewish people have always stood together with unwavering resolve. We join our prayers with those around the world for the safety and well-being of the people of Israel and the brave soldiers of the IDF. Am Yisrael chai: The people of Israel will persevere.
