On October 7, 2023, during the holiday of Shemini 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. The Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester stands in support with Israel and our brothers and sisters as they defend Israel.

 

Update December 6, 2023

 

The Latest

• As fighting continues, following the collapse of the ceasefire, three more soldiers have been killed, bringing the total number of IDF casualties since the ground offensive began to 8 4, (and to 410 IDF since October 7). One of those killed in recent days was an American-Israeli man, Ben Zussman. His mother’s moving eulogy has been widely viewed in Israel. See details of all the fallen soldiers here.
• By late Tuesday afternoon, the IDF said that its troops had reached the center of Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza.
• Hamas rocket attacks on Israel remain far lower than earlier in the war, but continue to strike Israeli cities daily. Yesterday, as a result of a particularly large barrage, several people were lightly injured by shrapnel from rockets in Tel Aviv and other locations. One rocket hit a kindergarten; thankfully, all the children were in the safety of the shelter at the time. In the north, Hezbollah also continues its medium-level rocket and other fire against Israeli targets.Update December 1, 2023

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

New Resources
See these newly produced resources by Jewish Federations that give insight into some areas of Federations’ emergency allocations:

• Pastoral Guidance
• Bedouin Communities
• Food Security

 

The Latest

• The week-long ceasefire in Gaza ended this morning after Israel and Hamas failed to agree on a list of hostages to be released today. Also, the Prime Minister's office accused Hamas of not fulfilling its promise to release all the female hostages. 
• In a terror attack in Jerusalem on Thursday morning, three people were killed when two brothers, Hamas-affiliated terrorists, opened fire at a bus stop. At least six other people were injured. Among those killed were a 24-year-old woman, and a Rabbinical Court Judge, Dayan Rabbi Elimelech Wasserman.
• Israeli security forces arrested 15 people last night in the West Bank on suspicion of terrorism.
• A rocket landed this morning in a kibbutz in the south of the country; no casualties, however, were reported.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 29, 2023

 

The Latest

Since October 7 :

• 1,225 Israelis have been killed, including 395 soldiers.
• 88 hostages have been freed, but 155 remain in captivity.
• 10,500 rockets have been fired at Israeli civilian targets.
• 9,038 Israelis have been injured.

 

Hostages

• As part of the hostage-release deal, 88 hostages have been freed from Hamas captivity in five groups over the last five days and reunited with their families in Israel. An additional 10 Israelis will be released tonight. Additionally, two hostages with Russian citizenship, and possibly Israeli citizenship, will be released in a gesture to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
• The hostages set free so far have mainly been young children, their mothers, elderly women, and foreign workers (mainly from Thailand).

In exchange for those let out, Israel has released some 210 terrorists from prison and granted a six-day ceasefire. Terrorists released as part of the deal were all women, and under-18 minors, most serving sentences for attempted murder, stabbings, and other terror attacks.

 

Click Here for the complete update. 

 

Update November 27, 2023

 

Key Resources From Jewish Federations

• Join a JDC Webinar, focusing on the organization’s efforts to respond to the current crisis: Wednesday, November 29th at noon (ET). Register here.
• Arab and Jewish Israelis joint responses: Join this webinar to hear from Shira Ohana and Hanan Alsanah about inspiring joint emergency responses from the earliest days of the war, and what they are doing today to preserve a shared future for all residents of the Negev. November 28, 12 noon ET. Register here.

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 21, 2023

 

The Latest:

• 68 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 388 soldiers since October 7. See a list of all soldiers who have fallen (with details, in Hebrew) in this war, here. Vered Benvenisti, who tragically lost her father and then her brother in previous Israeli wars, has now lost her son, who fell in battle in Gaza last night.
• Reports continue of an imminent deal on some hostages. Commenting on a possible agreement, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, “We’re closer now than we’ve been before.” According to many media outlets, the deal will likely involve the freeing of around 50 hostages (comprised of women, children, and non-Israeli nationals) in exchange for an unknown number of Hamas prisoners, alongside a 3-5 day ceasefire.
• The IDF announced that the residents of the Gaza Envelope in communities that are located within four kilometers or more from the Gaza Strip can now return home, although, for many, their houses have been destroyed. Yesterday, media circulated a photo of the reopened dining hall at Kibbutz Be’eri.

 

Click Here for the complete report.

 

Update November 20, 2023

 

The Latest:

• As the ground war continues, Israel has uncovered extensive tunnels under the Shifa Hospital, with concrete evidence that hostages were held there. Israel has also recovered several bodies of hostages at the hospital who were likely killed by Hamas. See the map here.
• 67 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 387 soldiers since October 7. See a list of all soldiers that have fallen (with details, in Hebrew) in this war, here.
• Iran-backed Yemeni Houthis have hijacked a ship in the Red Sea they claim is Israeli. According to Israel, the ship is British-owned and Japanese-run, and the international crew does not include any Israeli citizens. Read more here.
• Watch a special message from Israel’s President Isaac Herzog to global Jewish communities.

 

Click Here for the complete report. 

 

Update November 17, 2023

 

As Shabbat approaches in Israel, Jewish Federations’ Israel Office presents a shortened summary of the latest developments in the War. Full updates will resume next week. Meanwhile, from Jerusalem, we wish all of Israel, and Jews around the world, a comforting, safe and peaceful Shabbat.

Join with Jewish Federations, ADL, AJC, and Jews around the country to come together this weekend for a Shabbat of Unity. We ask that all Jews light a memorial candle in honor of those who were murdered in Israel and those who have sacrificed their lives fighting for the Jewish State. We also suggest that you light an extra pair of Shabbat candles, that you recite prayers for Israel and for the hostages, and that you end Shabbat by reciting Psalm 121. Please refer to AJC’s Everything You Need To Know About The Attack on Israel. Find suggested discussion materials and copies of prayers at www.adl.org/unity-shabbat.

We have raised more than $650 million to date systemwide and allocated close to $200 million. For details, click here.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 16, 2023

The Latest:

• As the ground war continues, Israeli forces reportedly dropped leaflets warning Palestinians to leave parts of southern Gaza, signaling a possible expansion of operations.
• 51 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 371 soldiers since October 7. See a list of all soldiers who have fallen (with details, in Hebrew) in this war, here.
• A checkpoint on the outskirts of Jerusalem was attacked by terrorists this morning. Three armed Palestinian gunmen stopped their car at the checkpoint, jumped out, and started firing at Israelis, wounding six including one who is in critical condition. The three terrorists, presumably headed into Jerusalem to carry out a major attack, were shot and killed. In their car, IDF soldiers found ammunition as well as axes.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 15, 2023

In the largest pro-Israel march in history, close to 300,000 people gathered yesterday in support of Israel on the National Mall in Washington DC. An additional 250,000 people watched the livestream of the event. The march, which also called for the release of the hostages being held by Hamas and against rising antisemitism, was organized by the Jewish Federations of North America and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. If you were unable to attend in person, watch it here. Read more here. 

The Latest

• As the ground war continues, the Israeli military says that it has made considerable gains toward destroying Hamas’ fighting capability and asserts that the terror group has now lost control over the northern part of the Gaza Strip.
• 48 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 367 soldiers have perished since October 7. Read more about some of the recent soldiers who fell, here.
• See details on these developments, and more, below.

 

Click Here for the complete update. 

 

Update November 13, 2023

Join the March for Israel, tomorrow, Tuesday, November 14th in Washington DC to show your support for Israel, stand in solidarity with the hostages, and condemn antisemitism. Read this editorial from today’s Jerusalem Post: DC Israel march is American Jews' moment to rise to the occasion.

 

Click Here to watch the event live beginning at 1:00pm (EST).

The Latest

• As the ground war continues, Israeli forces have made considerable gains toward destroying Hamas’ fighting capability.
• It is confirmed that 44 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began; a total of 363 soldiers have been slain since October 7. In addition, 239 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza. More than 1,200 Israelis were killed on October 7, and at least 7,000 have been injured. Some 9,500 rockets have been fired at Israel in that time, and more than a quarter of a million Israelis have been internally displaced. Read more here about some of the soldiers who fell recently.

 

Click Here for the complete report.

 

Update November 9, 2023

 

The Latest

• As the ground war continues, Israeli forces have made considerable gains towards destroying Hamas’ fighting capability.
• It is confirmed that 35 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 352 soldiers since October 7. In addition, 239 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza. More than 1,400 Israelis were killed on October 7, and 7,260 have been injured. At least 9,000 rockets have been fired at Israel in that time, and more than a quarter of a million Israelis have been internally displaced.
• A 55-year-old Kiryat Shmona resident, Meir Moyal, was killed on Monday after being hit by an anti-tank missile fired by Hezbollah in Lebanon's south.
• More details on these developments, and more, below.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 8, 2023

The Latest:

• As the second month of the war begins, the IDF has struck more than 14,000 targets in the Gaza Strip, destroyed over 100 tunnel entrances, and captured 4,000 weapons — including rockets — hidden in civilian infrastructure, since fighting began.
• It is confirmed that 32 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and that 240 hostages are still being held by Hamas in Gaza.
• During a call with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Joe Biden called for a humanitarian “pause in fighting." Netanyahu has said that there will be no ceasefire of any kind before the hostages are released; howeve, he has added that short term pauses for humanitarian reasons will continue.

Click Here for the complete report.

 

Update November 7, 2023

The Latest

• Israelis held a day of mourning today, marking the shloshim, the traditional one-month period, since the October 7 massacres.
• It is confirmed that 31 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 240 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza. In addition, over the last week, the IDF has struck more than 2,500 Hamas targets by land, air and sea.
• A 20-year old olah chadasha (Israeli new immigrant) from Atlanta, Georgia, Rose Ida Lubin, was killed in a terrorist attack in Jerusalem yesterday. The Israeli-American was serving as a Border Police Officer when she was stabbed by a 16 year-old Palestinian. Read more here.
• An elderly Jewish man has died in Los Angeles following a confrontation between pro- and anti-Israel demonstrators. While circumstances are still unclear, many are saying that the man died after being pushed by a pro-Palestinian protestor. See more here.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 6, 2023

The Latest

• Tomorrow marks one month of Israel’s War with Hamas, as heavy fighting continues in Gaza. It is confirmed that 31 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the ground offensive began, and 242 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza. In addition, over the last week, the IDF has struck more than 2,500 Hamas targets by land, air and sea.
• An Israeli civilian in Kiryat Shemona was killed when his car was hit by a Hezbollah rocket. In other violence, two police were stabbed by a terrorist in Jerusalem – one of whom has sadly now died, and over the weekend, a 30-year-old Israeli father of three was shot and killed by a terrorist in the Shomron region.
• Ukrainian leader Vlodimir Zelensky is set to visit Israel in the coming days.
• In an extraordinary move, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Council have issued a travel advisory for Israelis, calling on them to consider canceling any travel to any country; and where travel is unavoidable, to hide or downplay their Israeli and Jewish identities. Watch here.
• Over 1,000 Federation professionals from across North America gathered in Chicago for FedPro, where they engaged in skill-building workshops, learnings, and discussions about the war in Israel, how it's affecting our community, and how to improve our advocacy going forward.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 2, 2023

 

The Latest:

• More than three weeks into Israel’s War with Hamas, heavy fighting continues in Gaza. Eighteen Israeli soldiers have been killed, as well as hundreds of terrorists.
• Israel's updated official numbers are now saying that at least 242 Israelis are still being held captive by Hamas in Gaza.

 

Key Resources from Jewish Federations

• The JCRC of Greater Washington is holding a webinar with renowned Arab world affairs expert Ehud Yaari today (Thursday, November 2) at 4 p.m. ET. Register here.
• The Jewish Agency for Israel invites you to join us on Sunday, November 5 at noon ET together with our partners at the National Institutions Building--the World Zionist Organization, Keren Hayesod, and the Jewish National Fund--to mark the Shloshim (traditional 30 days of mourning) since the tragic events of October 7. In memory of those who were murdered on that dark day, we will hold a ceremony at our Jerusalem headquarters, and it will be streamed live on the Jewish Agency's Facebook page.
• In the latest episode of our podcast, The Glue, Eric Fingerhut talks about the ramifications of the war in Israel with Becky Caspi, the Director-General of Israel and Overseas and Aaron J. Goldberg, the Director of the Israel Office of The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. To listen, click here.
• Refer to the Community Mobilization Center Resource Hub for the latest talking points, tools and resources to help you speak up for Israel. 
• This site shows a map of the October 7 massacre, with a red dot for every person killed and a black dot for every person abducted by Hamas. Clicking on any dot will show the name and picture (if available) of the victim, along with their age and last-known location.
• For full details about the home front and military operations, see this update. And for information on the latest overall numbers from the conflict, see here.

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update November 1, 2023

 

The Latest:

• More than three weeks into Israel’s War with Hamas, 13 Israeli soldiers were confirmed killed in heavy fighting in Gaza.
• Long-range rockets fired at Israel by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen were intercepted over the Red Sea.
• Full details on these developments and more are below.

 

Key Resources from Jewish Federations

• Refer to the Community Mobilization Center Resource Hub for the latest talking points, tools and resources to help you speak up for Israel. 
• Member of the Security Cabinet, Minister Benny Gantz, has sent this special video message to our Jewish communities.
• This site shows a map of the October 7 massacre, with a red dot for every person killed and a black dot for every person abducted by Hamas. Clicking on any dot will show the name and picture (if available) of the victim, along with their age and last known location.
• For full details about the home front and military operations, see this update. And for information on the latest overall numbers from the conflict, see here.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update October 31, 2023

THE LATEST:

• More than three weeks into Israel’s War with Hamas, the IDF has successfully rescued one of the hostages, leaving 240 still in captivity.
• Israel’s ground campaign continues, with reports suggesting that Gaza City is now surrounded by Israeli forces.

 

KEY RESOURCES FROM JEWISH FEDERATIONS

• JDC will hold an Israel Emergency Briefing tomorrow, Wednesday November 1 at noon ET, with Col. (Ret.) Miri Eisin, media commentator and director of the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism at Reichman University in Herzliya. Hear an overview of the situation on the ground and the issues facing Israel’s society. The call will also feature speakers from the JDC team in Israel about their efforts to support those affected by the war. Register here.
• Member of the Security Cabinet, Minister Benny Gantz, has sent this special video message to our Jewish communities.
• This site shows a map of the October 7 massacre with a red dot for every person killed and a black dot for every person abducted by Hamas. Clicking on any dot will show the name and picture (if available) of the victim with age and last known location.
• For full details about the home front and military operations, see this update. And for information on the latest overall numbers from the conflict, see here.
• Birthright Israel has opened a volunteering program for people from outside of Israel to come to Tel Aviv and assist in food rescue operations to prevent shortages in the Israeli market; this includes sorting, packing, and distributing goods for both civil and military personnel.

 

Click Here for the Full Report.

 

Update October 30, 2023

KEY POINTS:

• More than three weeks into Israel’s War with Hamas, a ground offensive has begun but has not, as yet, taken the exact form that many had expected.
• The IDF has updated its numbers and now says that 309 soldiers have been killed and that 234 people have been confirmed to have been taken hostage, with 4 released, leaving 230 now in Hamas captivity.
• Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Muslim rioters stormed a Russian airport trying to find “Israelis and Jews” they believed had landed on a flight from Israel. No Israelis were hurt.
• Full details on these developments and more are below.

 

Click Here for the Complete Report.

 

Update October 27, 2023

 

As Shabbat approaches in Israel, Jewish Federations’ Israel Office presents a shortened summary of the latest developments in the War. Full updates will resume next week. Meanwhile, from Jerusalem, we wish all of Israel, and Jews around the world, a comforting, safe and peaceful Shabbat. 

 

• At the end of third week of the War with Hamas, Israel sent tanks and troops into Gaza for the second time. They went in overnight for a limited incursion that struck terrorists and sites on the ground. The raid, in eastern Gaza City, was carried out by infantry, combat engineering and armored forces, with Israeli Air Force drones and helicopters providing air cover. All Israeli forces left the areas several hours later, and no injuries to IDF troops were reported. See footage from the incursion here and video from the command center during the operation, here.

• Jewish Federations of North America announced that we have collectively raised $554 million for the Israel Emergency Campaign. The campaign was launched on October 12th with an initial goal of $500 million. To date, $121.6 million has been allocated to over 60 organizations in Israel to support frontline communities, the Fund for Victims of Terror, trauma relief, medical equipment, support for first responders and volunteer efforts. One hundred percent of all funds raised are making it into the hands of the organizations that can do the most good on the ground.

Update October 26, 2023

 

THE LATEST
• On day 20 of Israel’s War with Hamas, Israeli forces, including tanks, again entered Gaza on land for a few hours, completed their mission, and then withdrew.

• The IDF has updated its numbers and now says that 309 soldiers have been killed, and that 228 people can be confirmed taken hostage, with 4 released, leaving 224 now in Hamas captivity. 

• Prime Minister Netanyahu said yesterday in a televised address that Israel is preparing to invade Gaza, but offered no details on the timing or other information.

• Full details on these developments, and more, below.

 

Click Here for the complete update. 

 

Update October 25, 2023

 

The Latest:

• On day 19 of Israel’s War with Hamas, rockets continue to be fired at Israel, reaching as far south as Eilat and as far north as Haifa.
• Stories of tragedy and pain, but also of heroism continue to emerge.
• Full details on these developments, and more, below.

 

Key Resources from Jewish Federations

• Join the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI) for their daily, balanced, in-depth and inside analysis of the war in Israel. Today at 11am ET. Click here. A rotating team of experienced analysts of Israeli military affairs, the US-Israel relationship, Israel’s political system and the country’s diverse society, will guide you through the fog of war, the bombardment of news - real and fake - the barrage of tweets and posts and the confusion of chaos. Sponsored by Jewish Federations.
• Join us tomorrow, Thursday, October 26, at 1pm ET as we highlight the impact of our Federation advocacy and allocations. Hear personal stories from our leaders on the ground, and a briefing on community advocacy and the impact of our collective allocations. To register for the webinar, please click here.
• Join Jewish Federations tomorrow, Thursday, October 26, at 8pm ET, for "Unity in Harmony: Standing in Solidarity, Song, and Prayer for Israel” featuring music and words of hope, strength, and healing from David Broza, Rabbi Josh Warshawsky, Nefesh Mountain, Rick Recht and many more. Register here.
• Last week, the Biden Administration sent Congress its supplemental funding request, which contains key priorities for the Jewish community, including emergency aid for Israel, domestic security funding, and continued aid to Ukraine. Click here to urge your members of Congress to support this critical aid package.

 

As Israeli Jews of Color grieve alongside their brothers and sisters following the deadly Hamas terror attacks on October 7th, American Jews of Color worry about their safety in the U.S. Jews of Color can click here to take action to urge their members of Congress to support the supplemental budget request, which provides emergency security assistance to Israel and American Jewish community institutions.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update October 24, 2023

THE LATEST:

• On day 17 of Israel’s War with Hamas, two more hostages have been released, leaving 220 more in Hamas captivity.
• French President Emmanuel Macron is in Israel in an additional show of the solidarity of western nations.
• Israeli media is reporting that behind closed doors, the U.S. is suggesting that Israel should not launch a ground invasion of Gaza now. 
• Full details on these developments, and more, below.

 

Click Here for the complete update. 

 

Updated October 23, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

• On day 16 of Israel’s War with Hamas, attacks from the north are ongoing, while Israel’s retaliation continues.
• Over Shabbat, Hamas released two hostages “on humanitarian grounds.” The two were American (Chicagoan) mother and daughter Natalie and Judith Raanan. Ten members of their family remain captive.
• Western countries, led by the United States, continue to strongly back Israel, and its right to self-defense.
• Jewish Federations have allocated more than $70 million of the $388 million already raised.
• Full details on these developments, and much more, below.
• Register here for a webinar on October 24 at 11am ET - Israel at War: The Jewish Agency’s Response
• JDC will host an Israel Emergency Briefing, featuring updates from the ground in Israel and JDC's efforts to support those affected by the crisis on Wednesday October 25, at 12:00pm ET. Register here.

 

Click Here for the Full Report.

 

Update October 20, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

• On day 14 of Israel’s War with Hamas, tensions continue to build in the north, and Israel has begun to evacuate the city of Kiryat Shemona, which has a population of some 22,000. Residents will be taken to hotels and other venues.
  • Over thirty rockets were launched today from Lebanon to Israel. Most were intercepted, others fell in open fields. One rocket fell in Kiryat Shmona causing some injuries.
  • Israel still hopes to avoid further escalation in the north, but did strike several more Hezbollah sites overnight in response to yesterday’s rocket and missile fire on northern Israel.
  • Separately, the IDF carried out a drone strike killing a terror operative in the area.

The US has warned Hezbollah to stay out of the war with Hamas, and the U.S. and Germany yesterday called on their citizens in Lebanon to leave the country immediately. Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update October 18, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

• On day 12 of Israel’s War with Hamas, US President Joe Biden has landed in Israel in a highly significant show of solidarity and support. This is the first ever visit of a sitting US President to the Jewish state during wartime.
• Jewish Federations of North America have raised an astonishing $388 million to support Israel in her hour of need, surpassing two-thirds of the $500 million campaign announced just last week. For details, see here.
• Despite Hamas claims of 500 Palestinians killed by an Israeli airstrike on a Gazan hospital, the IDF has presented conclusive evidence that the damage was from a Palestinian Islamic Jihad misfired rocket, and that the hospital itself was not hit. The governments of the US and the UK, among others, have agreed with Israel’s claims.
• Israel has established a humanitarian zone in southern Gaza where international aid will be provided for fleeing Palestinians.

 

Key Resources

• Jewish Federations of North America placed a full-page ad in the Jerusalem Post to welcome President Joe Biden to Israel on his mission of solidarity, thanking him profoundly for “his deep and sincere support of Israel during this dark hour.”
• For those in Israel looking for help, critical information about the situation on the ground, or other assistance, see this resource page put together by Jewish Federations. See also this Jewish Federations information page on requests for personal protective equipment which are circulating and this update regarding volunteering.
• Readers can access a Jewish Federations toolkit of resources here. For full details about the home front and military operations, see this update.

Over 120 communities have held solidarity gatherings. Watch it here. For a guidebook on hosting a gathering in your community, click here.

Click Here for the full report

 

Updated October 16, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

• On day 10 of Israel’s War with Hamas, rocket fire has slowed considerably as Hamas appears to be losing control over Gaza.
• With a ground invasion imminent, US President Biden is said to be considering a visit to Israel in the coming days.
• At home, Israeli citizens and corporations have been rallying to support soldiers as well as all those affected by the fighting.
• Jewish Federations along with 50 partner organizations have launched #BlueRibbonsforIsrael. Learn more here.

 

The Home Front
Funerals continue to take place across Israel, as more victims are identified. Of the 1300 Israelis killed, 291 soldiers are among the confirmed dead - of whom 75 are from the Golani Brigade which was deployed on the Gaza border on the day of the invasion. See here for a list of the names of those murdered that have been released so far, and here for a site in Hebrew with the names and photos of fallen soldiers.

For infographics with the latest numbers from the conflict, see here.

 

Click Here for the complete update.

 

Updated October 15, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

 

• Israeli society is displaying unprecedented unity during this war and has come together wiith extensive volunteer efforts and aid from various organizations.
• Heroic stories are emerging, including a journalist's rescue by his father and a retired couple's ordeal during a 20-hour Hamas hostage situation.
• The war is impacting Israel's economy, with business limitations and ongoing challenges due to terrorist activity.
• Arab Israelis struggle with the aftermath of the conflict, as questions on ethical considerations and the proportionality of Israel's response arise.
• International support for Israel escalates, with the US dispatching additional military aid, and European leaders expressing steadfast support for Israel.
• Jewish Federations launched a $500 million campaign, offering aid and resources for those affected, while maintaining close collaboration with Israeli authorities and partners on the ground.

 

Today is day 9 of Israel’s War with Hamas and this update takes a slightly different approach. In addition to the latest developments, today we will provide links and information focusing on more behind-the-scenes developments and areas, to give readers a better sense of the feeling in Israel. Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update October 13, 2023

 

KEY POINTS:

• More than 1,300 Israelis killed, including at least 220 soldiers, 22 US citizens, and 2 Canadians, with over 3,300 wounded, including 350 in serious condition. Additionally, over 6,000 rockets have been fired at Israel, and an estimated 150 Israelis are being held hostage in Gaza.
• Jewish Federations have launched an unprecedented $500 million campaign to support Israel at this time. See more here. We also announced our first $10 million allocation. Click here for details.
• For those in Israel – or with family or friends there – who are looking for help, critical information about the situation on the ground, or other assistance, see this resource page put together by Jewish Federations. See also this information page on requests for personal protective equipment which are circulating and this update regarding volunteering.

 

On Day 7 of Israel’s war with Hamas, the IDF appears poised for a massive ground invasion of Gaza, and has ordered one million Palestinians in the north of the Strip to evacuate. Click Here for the complete update. 

 

Update October 12, 2023

 

KEY POINTS

• More than 1,300 Israelis killed, including at least 220 soldiers, 22 US citizens and 2 Canadians
• Some 3,300 Israelis wounded, including 350 in serious condition
• Over 6,000 rockets fired at Israel
• An estimated 150 Israelis being held hostage in Gaza
• For those looking for help, critical information about the situation on the ground, or other assistance, see this resource page put together by Jewish Federations.
• See also this Jewish Federations update on requests for personal protective equipment which are circulating.

 

On Day 6 of Israel’s war with Hamas the casualty rate has again risen, reaching 1300 Israelis killed.

 

In a massive display of unity with Israel, Jewish Federations have held (or are planning) some 120 solidarity gatherings in communities across North America, as part of an unprecedented effort to support Israel. Click Here for the complete update.

 

Update October 11, 2023

 

KEY POINTS

• More than 1,200 Israelis killed, including some 170 soldiers
• Over 3,000 Israelis wounded – 480 still hospitalized; 6,000 rockets fired at Israel
• An estimated 150 Israelis being held hostage in Gaza
• National Emergency Government established with Netanyahu and Gantz
• Concern over second front heats up with exchanges across Lebanon border
• Biden pledges unwavering support against "pure unadulterated evil" Hamas wrought; Blinken to visit Israel
• Federations hold 115 solidarity events across North America

 

On Day 5 of Israel’s war with Hamas the casualty rate has yet again risen significantly. Additional hostile acts by Hezbollah are stoking fears of a two-front war. 

 

Late in the afternoon today, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and National Union Chair Benny Gantz announced the formation of a national emergency unity government. Five National Unity MKs will join the government as ministers without portfolio, and a new Security Cabinet will be comprised of Netanyahu, Gantz, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, with Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer as well as National Unity MK Gadi Eizenkot (a former IDF Chief of Staff) serving as observers. 

 

Yesterday morning, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog met with President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America Eric Fingerhut, along with the CEO of UJA Federation New York Eric Goldstein, and Jewish Federations Senior Vice President Rebecca Caspi, to discuss the emergency situation.  

 

President Herzog said, “Israel is under attack and its people are grieving. But the Jewish state has always shown incredible resilience under fire and today is strong, determined, and united.” The president specifically thanked global Jewry, and singled out the North American Jewish community for “standing shoulder to shoulder with Israel in its hour of need” and thanked us “for all you are doing to speak up, support and defend Israel on the global stage: In the corridors of power, the press, social media and throughout the public arena. We in Israel feel greatly comforted by the fact that the entire Jewish People is with us at this fateful hour.” 

 

In a massive display of unity with Israel, Jewish Federations have organized (or are planning) more than 115 solidarity gatherings in communities across North America. Click Here for more information

 

Update October 9, 2023 KEY POINTS More than 900 Israelis have been killed; Some 2600 are wounded, 600 of which are still hospitalized; 5,000 rockets fired at Israel; and an estimated 150 Israelis being held hostage in Gaza The IDF does not currently regard the situation as a multi-front conflict despite skirmishes in the North The IDF has stated that they have sufficient supplies. There are some temporary delays in distribution, but are asking that people not send in supplies Some terrorists may still be at large despite Israeli retaking control of territory and border fence Israeli media are reporting that all of the major political parties are close to an agreement for a broad emergency national coalition government. This morning, President Herzog met with our own Eric Fingerhut and Rebecca Caspi and UJA-Federation of New York's Eric Goldstein, and thanked "the North American Jewish community for standing shoulder to shoulder with Israel in its hour of need." On Day 4 of Israel’s war with Hamas the casualty rate has again risen significantly. Despite several skirmishes in the North, the IDF does not regard the current situation as a multi-front conflict at this stage. Click here for the full update.

Update October 8, 2023:

Key Points

• Cabinet has officially delared war. More than 600 Israelis have been killed. Some 2,000 Israelis wounded. At least 5,000 rockets fired at Israel. An estimated 100 Israelis are being held hostage in Gaza.
• The Jewish Agency for Israel's Fund for Victims of Terror (FVOT) is the first responder in the recovery process of families and individuals who have been impacted by acts of terror and violence, providing immediate grants to assist victims, as needed, within 48 hours of an attack. The Agency estimates that it will need to provide at least 350 short term grants and 750 long term grants.
• JDC is providing support to those in the line of fire, including elderly, people with disabilities, children and families at risk, and other vulnerable populations adversely impacted during this war and in past conflicts.
• Jewish Federations stand in total and complete solidarity with Israel. We are working closely with our partners on the ground and have opened an emergency fund to support these efforts. Click here.
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In what many have begun to call Israel’s 9/11 (see the Jerusalem Post’s cover story today) the Jewish state has entered the second day of its war against Hamas. Clearly, the numbers above point to one of the blackest days in the country’s history.

Israeli Response
Last night Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed the nation on live television, saying, that Israel is experiencing “events never seen before.” He vowed to use all of the IDF’s power to hit Hamas, and warned Gaza civilians to “get out now.” See his full remarks here. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has indicated his willingness to join an emergency government, together with National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz. Political discussions are underway.

• The Israel Defense Forces has initiated a massive call-up of reserve forces (see footage here). The army said four divisions of reservists were being deployed to the Gaza border, joining 35 battalions that were already there. Electricity to the Gaza Strip has been cut.
• The IDF hit over 500 targets in numerous air strikes, dropping 16 tons of munitions on terror sites, killing at least 230 people on the ground. Targets hit include 17 military compounds, four headquarters, and four high-rise towers the IDF said were used by Hamas. See here for footage of a strike on multiple terror cells in the area of the security fence in the Gaza Strip over the past day. According to many reports, the IDF is preparing for ground forces to enter the Strip.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that all Israeli citizens around the world who wish to return to Israel should know that Ben Gurion Airport is open for incoming and outgoing flights. Some foreign airlines have canceled flights to Israel.
• For those in Israel, the IDF’s Home Front Command has an app that can be downloaded here that gives information, advice and instructions to people on the ground. The site does not work outside of Israel.

International Reactions

• US President Joe Biden called Prime Minister Netanyahu to offer Israel full support. Later, Biden appeared together with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and spoke about Israel saying, “We will not ever fail to have their back, we’ll make sure that they’ll have the help their citizens need and they can continue to defend themselves.” See full text here.
   
• Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, posted on X that, “Canada strongly condemns the current terrorist attacks against Israel. These acts of violence are completely unacceptable. We stand with Israel and fully support its right to defend itself. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this. Civilian life must be protected.”
   
• French President Emmanuel Macron also strongly condemned the attacks, saying, “I express my full solidarity with the victims, and their families and those close to them.”
   

Numerous buildings around the world have been lit up with Israeli flags in solidarity with the Jewish state, including the Empire State Building in New York, the Italian Parliament and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. See more here.