US Jewish Leaders Stand United Against Terror and Anti-Semitism, Express Solidarity with Israel
In a powerful display of solidarity, US Jewish leaders have taken a stand against terror and anti-Semitism, particularly in the wake of the recent barbarous assault by Hamas on southern Israel. The assault, which claimed the lives of 1,400 Israelis, demonstrated a level of violence and cruelty reminiscent of tragic moments in Jewish history such as the Inquisition, the Pogroms, and the Holocaust.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Jewish organizations, including the Conference of Presidents, have worked closely with the Biden administration to convey the gravity of the situation and develop an appropriate response. This collaboration with government officials has enabled the Jewish community to secure crucial support, ranging from funds to protect communal institutions from hate crimes to bolstering the recognition of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself.
Highlighting the indispensable role of institutions like the Conference of Presidents, which was established in 1956 to represent American Jewish interests, the leaders emphasize the need for effective representation in the halls of power. During a recent fly-in to Washington, the national leadership of the American Jewish community demonstrated their unwavering commitment to Israel’s security. They were joined by top leaders from both houses of Congress, reflecting a strong moral standpoint in support of Israel’s right to defend itself and the ongoing commitment of the US government to Israel’s security.
Following this event, a delegation of 50 leaders embarked on an Emergency Solidarity Mission to Israel, reinforcing the message that the US stands firmly behind the people of Israel. During their visit, they met with political leaders, IDF representatives, families affected by the recent attacks, and victims of violence. The solidarity demonstrated by the US Jewish community serves as a powerful testament to their unwavering support for Israel.
However, the existence of fringe groups purporting to represent American Jewry poses a significant challenge. Extremist organizations like IfNotNow and Jewish Voice for Peace, which claim to speak on behalf of left-wing millennial Jews, actually align themselves with enemies who seek to eliminate the Jewish state. These groups do not genuinely represent the Jewish people and instead serve as pawns for antisemites to launder their own hatred. Their charges of genocide against Israel are inflammatory and can fuel the passions of antisemites.
As the Jewish people fight this war on many fronts, it becomes evident that there is a pressing need to combat apologism for terror and antisemitism wherever it arises, particularly on college campuses where young people are most vulnerable. The American Jewish community remains dedicated to ensuring Israel has the necessary means to defend itself, both through fundraising efforts and advocating for its interests in public affairs.
The ongoing conflict has exemplified the strength and resilience of the Jewish people, who, as President Biden often quotes Golda Meir, have no other choice but to triumph. With a united front and steadfast determination, the US Jewish community stands alongside Israel, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
[The writer is CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (COP), the recognized central coordinating body representing 50 diverse national Jewish organizations on issues of national and international concern.]
