Since the events of October 7, 2023, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has significantly impacted Israelis, Jewish communities, and supporters worldwide, including myself. The attack resulted in over 200 individuals being taken hostage, creating a ripple effect that has shattered families and left communities grappling with fear and uncertainty. Reflecting on these past five months, I am reminded of my firsthand experiences in Israel, where I witnessed remarkable strength and advocacy.
Global Community Efforts
The breach along the Gaza border exposed vulnerabilities many never imagined. Yet, amidst this tragedy, we have seen acts of courage from various communities. Currently, over 10,000 seriously injured individuals are receiving treatment in Israeli hospitals, and the crisis has mobilized 300,000 reserve soldiers. Ordinary Israelis evacuated more than 200,000 families while facing threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Syria. Their determination is a powerful reminder of communities coming together during difficult times.
This spirit of solidarity was palpable at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on November 14, where I joined 200,000 people standing against violence and antisemitism in support of Israel. The gathering exemplified a collective resolve, affirming a commitment to opposing violence. You can watch the rally in full detail here.
Similarly, in Montreal, I saw pro-Israel students from Concordia organizing gatherings to voice their opposition to violence against Israel. At McGill, Julia Langleben shared her experiences of facing intimidation for supporting Israel, revealing the challenges faced within our community. The Montreal Gazette covered this event in detail, highlighting the varied responses that contribute to a larger narrative of resilience.
In January, I participated in the Montreal Federation Mission of Witness to Israel. Visiting places like the kibbutz of Nir Oz, residents shared their harrowing experiences during the October 7 attack, recounting the fear and uncertainty that engulfed their community. In Sderot, we viewed footage of the invasion, revealing the chaos and devastation that unfolded. Witnessing this left a profound impact on all of us, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Despite the tragedy, inspiring stories of hope and resilience emerged, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit. We also met with leaders like the mayor of Beer Sheva, who is dedicated to overseeing the welfare of evacuated citizens, working tirelessly to support those affected by the conflict.
Notably, the Jewish community raised over $60 million in just the first month of the conflict, eventually surpassing a billion dollars in contributions. This response reflects a commitment to rebuilding and supporting one another during these challenging times.
Spiritual Resilience
In addition to community efforts, our spiritual practices have become a vital source of strength. Our rabbis encourage us to embrace acts of kindness, prayer, reciting psalms, and participating in communal gatherings. These activities help us cope and reinforce our connections, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us in adversity. I find solace in these communal practices, which provide a framework for healing and hope.
The Hostages: A Continuing Ordeal
As we reflect on our collective strength, we must also confront the ongoing plight of the hostages. Over 200 individuals remain captive, with families working tirelessly for their release and amplifying their voices. In Tel Aviv, a digital clock marks the days since their abduction—now exceeding 150. Families have found solace in a dedicated office building, collaborating to raise awareness and support each other.
In Montreal, demonstrations advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas have unfolded at various locations, including the offices of the Red Cross, City Hall, and Place des Arts. The sense of urgency is palpable, with community members uniting to demand action.
On December 4, I joined thousands in Ottawa, standing in support of Israel and demanding the release of hostages. This event showcased a powerful blend of voices from diverse communities—politicians, community leaders, and families—coming together with a shared purpose.
Honouring Fallen Soldiers
As the conflict continues, the toll on soldiers is devastating. The IDF has established a website to honour those lost in battle, with 139 soldiers having fallen since the ground offensive began. Each life lost is not just a statistic; it serves as a profound reminder of the cost of war and the sacrifices made by those defending Israel.
In Jewish tradition, every life is cherished, and the loss of even one person resonates deeply within the community. Among those who have fallen are Lt. Shai Ayeli, 21, a cadet in Israel’s officers’ training school from Ashkelon, and Sgt. First Class (res.) Tal Shua, 31, from Beersheba, who served in the Combat Engineering Corps. Their stories and countless others reflect the shared grief and resilience that bind Jewish communities during these challenging times. Each story inspires us to honour their memory through our actions and advocacy.
A Call for Peace
As we navigate these challenging times, we must remember that peace is our ultimate goal. Each of us has a role in fostering understanding, advocating for justice, and working towards liberating those held captive. I urge you to get involved—whether through local advocacy groups, supporting humanitarian efforts, or participating in community discussions. Together, we can amplify our voices and work toward a peaceful future for Israel and all affected by the conflict.
May we witness the liberation of those held captive and the realization of everlasting peace. Hashta b’agala oo’b’zman kariv—May it happen speedily and soon, in our time.
