In an unprecedented show of solidarity, Jews and their allies from across the United States are set to converge on Washington, D.C., this Tuesday for what is expected to be one of the largest pro-Israel rallies in recent history.
Educational institutions within the Jewish community have suspended classes, entire communities have booked flights, and major cities are reportedly running low on coach buses due to the overwhelming response to the call for participation in the March for Israel.
The event, jointly organized by the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and the Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA), is scheduled to take place on the iconic National Mall in the nation's capital.
William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents, condemned the ongoing acts of terror perpetrated by Hamas, stating, Hamass brutal and ongoing acts of terror have no place in a civilized world, and directly undermine global efforts to seek just and lasting peace in the Middle East. He emphasized the importance of America sending a clear message of support to Israel, standing in solidarity with the victims, hostages, and their families, and rejecting extreme anti-Israel rhetoric.
Echoing Daroff's sentiments, JFNA CEO Eric Fingerhut drew parallels between Israel's fight against Hamas and America's battle against al-Qaeda and ISIS. He said, Americans have rightly stood by Israel at this critical moment because Americans understand that Israels fight against Hamas is no different than Americas fight against al-Qaeda and ISIS.
The relationship between America and Israel is a longstanding one, with the American public consistently showing support for the Jewish state. This support has been particularly evident in the wake of the October 7 massacre, with public opinion polls indicating widespread backing for Israel's military campaign against Hamas. The Biden administration's unwavering support for Israel during these challenging times has also been well-received.
American Jews have been instrumental in fostering and maintaining the US-Israel relationship, even before the establishment of the Jewish state. Their connection with Israel forms an integral part of their identity, with active engagement in Israeli causes, display of Israeli flags in synagogues and communal institutions, and advocacy for a robust US-Israel relationship. The centrality of Israel in Jewish life in America is undeniable.
Given the current circumstances, American support for Israel is more crucial than ever. As Israel grapples with the loss of lives, the plight of the wounded, the uncertainty surrounding hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, and the global surge of anti-Semitic hate, the solidarity shown by Americans provides much-needed reassurance.
The call to action for American Jews and their allies is clear: march in Washington. March in support of Israel, demand the release of the hostages in Gaza, and stand against anti-Semitism in all its forms, including anti-Zionism.
This is a time for unity, for drawing strength from each other and from the sense of community and peoplehood. The gathering in Washington serves as a tangible expression of Clal Yisrael the Jewish people and offers allies from different faiths and ethnic groups an opportunity to demonstrate their support for Israel.
The future of Israel, the Jewish people, the US-Israel relationship, and the shared values they represent hinge on this show of solidarity. The message is clear: America, it's time to march.
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