From Our CEO
Update on Rocket Attacks into Israel
May 11th, 2021

We’re deeply alarmed by the escalating violence in Israel, with hundreds of rockets being fired from Gaza and sirens sounding in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Ashkelon, Sderot, and other places across Israel. Ben-Gurion Airport was temporarily closed today because of the barrage of rockets targeting central Israel. As of now, three Israelis have been killed and dozens injured. People across the country are spending the night in safe rooms and bomb shelters. Schools will be closed tomorrow.

There can be no justification  ever  for sending rockets into civilian neighborhoods in Israel.

For a very insightful report on the current situation, we invite you to watch this briefing from earlier this afternoon with former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren. (The recording begins a few seconds after Ambassador Oren began his remarks.) The briefing was arranged by the Jewish Agency for Israel, our largest overseas partner, which is on the ground along with our other partners, supporting those affected by the violence, as well as vulnerable populations throughout Israel.

In an-all-too-real moment, Ambassador Oren paused to let us see and hear the rockets being fired close to his home. The Iron Dome intercepted most rockets, and then one hit right outside his building. The briefing ended abruptly so those in Israel on the phone could take shelter and check on their families.

This is what’s happening across Israel right now  and our hearts are with our brothers and sisters there. We’re scheduling a community-wide solidarity event for 5:00 pm tomorrow, and will circulate further details as soon as they become available.  

Meanwhile, we pray that no more lives will be lost and that calm will soon be restored.