Jewish organizations around the world have expressed their unwavering support and solidarity with the State of Israel in the wake of attacks that struck the country during celebration of the Simchat Torah holiday.
The Jewish Federations of North America released a statement, underscoring their steadfast alliance with Israel during these trying times.
'A day of solidarity'
“The Jewish communities of North America stand in total and complete solidarity with our Israeli brethren. We pray for their safety and will act immediately and comprehensively to support them," the statement reads. "Today is not a day of simcha [happiness] in Israel, but it is a day of solidarity, determination, and utmost seriousness. Israel will prevail, and the Jewish people will stand together as we always do. Am yisrael chai [the nation of Israel is alive]."
Similarly, the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) unreservedly condemned the violent surprise coordinated attacks on Israel by Hamas. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the AIJAC Executive Director Dr. Colin Rubenstein stated: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Israel. We trust that the international community will unreservedly condemn this brutal act of wanton terrorism by Hamas, and will fully support Israel’s right to defend itself.”
Zionism Victoria, reflecting on the historical significance of the day and the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, noted the uncanny timing. The President of Zionism Victoria, Yossi Goldfarb, expressed his distress at the unfolding events and stressed the necessity of international support. “Israel’s right to defend its borders and citizens against unprovoked aggression must be recognized by the global community,” he insisted.
We stand in total solidarity with the people of Israel following a massive, unprovoked attack by Hamas. Dozens of terrorists infiltrated Israel in the early hours of Saturday, storming communities and homes, kidnapping and murdering civilians.At least 22 people have been…
— American Jewish Committee (@AJCGlobal) October 7, 2023
'We remain vigilant'
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) echoed the sentiments of other Jewish organizations in the wake of the attacks. Their statement underscored Israel's indisputable right to self-defense and labeled the actions of Hamas as war crimes. "Israel has the indisputable right to defend itself against the Iran-backed Hamas terror organization," ADL said. "The missiles aimed at Israeli towns and the terrorists infiltrating villages are no less than war crimes as they target civilians."
Amb. Ronald S. Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, issued a poignant statement, asserting the unwavering support of the Jewish diaspora for Israel in these tumultuous times. He said, "Now, more than ever, it is imperative for us to stand as one – unified and resolute." His statement encapsulated the feelings of many in the Jewish community worldwide: "In unity lies our indomitable strength."
Adding to the voices of support, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) took to social media to express their solidarity.
In a tweet the organization stated: "We stand in total solidarity with the people of Israel following a massive, unprovoked attack by Hamas. Dozens of terrorists infiltrated Israel, storming communities and homes. At least 22 people have been killed with hundreds more injured. More than 2,500 rockets were fired into Israel, putting millions at risk. All Israelis, including AJC staff, have been called up to defend their country. Israel has every right to defend itself."
With the Jewish community worldwide on high alert, many also express concerns over potential repercussions in their respective countries. Goldfarb added, "When hostilities erupt in Israel, there is often a spike in antisemitic incidents elsewhere. We remain vigilant."
J Street, the left-wing Jewish lobby in the US, expressed shock, outrage, and horror at the surprise terrorist assault by Hamas on Israel today. The ongoing attack, falling on both Shabbat and Simchat Torah, has led to heart-wrenching scenes of Israelis trapped in their homes amidst live combat. J Street said it firmly stands with Israel, emphasizing, "Our thoughts and our hearts are with all of the victims and their loved ones." The organization also called for the international community's unequivocal condemnation of Hamas’ actions.
The American Jewish Congress strongly also condemned the escalating actions of Hamas. The organization stated its staunch support for Israel and its inherent right to defend its citizens, emphasizing the importance of international unity in condemning this egregious act. "The continued acts of terror from groups like Hamas underscore the dire challenges Israel faces daily," the statement read.
Sacha Roytman Dratwa, CEO of the Combat Antisemitism Movement, expressed deep concern about the ongoing assault, emphasizing that there's "only one moral choice at this perilous moment." He urged global leaders to stand with Israel in these testing times, stating, "May the memories of the victims of today’s heinous violence forever be a blessing."
The overarching sentiment resonating among Jewish organizations in the diaspora is one of unity, resolve, and an undying bond with the State of Israel. They pledge their continued support and hope for peace and security for all affected by the conflict.