As terrible violence continues to escalate in Israel, the Jewish Federation of San Diego County and the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) remain deeply troubled and compassionate for those affected by this untenable violence.

We pray that calm will be restored as quickly as possible, we pray for peace in Israel, and we pray for families those affected.

Today, after two weeks of daily violence throughout Israel, we are deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of two Israelis.

“We are stunned and deeply troubled by the recent terrorist attacks in Israel which have continued to escalate since an innocent Israeli couple was barbarically shot to death in their car in front of their four children. We remain horrified by these acts of terror and our thoughts and prayers are with these victims and their families,” said Michael Siegal, Chair of the Board of The Jewish Federations of North America. “With each of these murders an entire family is shattered and will never be the same. Our hearts ache for their loss as we hope for this violence to end.”

“We continue to mourn for those who have been murdered and pray for their families, and we wish for a full and speedy recovery to all of those who have been injured. No family should have to endure such pain and suffering,” said Jerry Silverman, President and CEO of The Jewish Federations of North America. “There is no possible justification for these senseless attacks and we continue to stand in solidarity with the State of Israel.”

Many have asked what they can do to help Israel now.

Direct and immediate assistance for those affected by the violence is provided by Fund for the Victims of Terror, a standing resource that provides Jewish Agency for Israel with the monetary support it needs to rebuild lives.

Your support for the Fund for the Victims of Terror helps get aid to those in need immediately following an attack by getting them the financial assistance needed and helping them begin the healing process.

As always, 100% of your donation to the fund will go to help people in need.  Federation will cover all administrative fees.

Starting on Friday, October 16, we are asking those in our community to show solidarity with Israel and update their social media profile pictures to the below image. This effort will help us all easily send warm sentiments and strength to our Israeli brothers and sisters.

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You can make a difference.

Join us in helping the victims of this senseless violence.

We will continue and monitor these events closely and update any developments as they happen.

We pray for peace and mourn the loss of life on all sides of this conflict.