From Agudath Israel of America: Update on the Situation in Eretz Yisroel
October 9, 2023 – 24 Tishrei 5784
As our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel face unspeakable tragedy and danger, Agudas Yisroel is sharing the following updates and action items we can all undertake.
During the past few days, we have seen horrific atrocities committed against Israeli innocents, reminiscent of the darkest days of Jewish history. Murder. Mayhem. Kidnappings. Beheadings. Inhuman behavior. Directed towards soldier and civilian alike. Men, women, children, infants and the elderly.
Agudath Israel has been in touch with high-ranking U.S. government officials to discuss the situation, both abroad and at home. But now is not the time to give reports. Now is a time for action.
We must stand firmly by Israel’s side and ensure strong and steadfast support by our elected officials in Washington. President Biden has committed additional military assistance, including equipment, resources and munitions, to Israel, and has moved the Gerald Ford aircraft carrier toward the eastern Mediterranean. We thank the President for this vital aid.
But Congress will be returning to town tomorrow. And we must also engage them in bolstering support for Israel.
We urge you to contact your Representatives and urge them to publicly express their staunch backing of Israel in the fight against terror. They must speak out at this critical moment!
And we must also urge them to co-sponsor a bipartisan resolution to be introduced tomorrow by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Ranking Member Gregory Meeks (D-NY). The resolution, among other things says the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas’ brutal war.
Contact your Representatives and urge them to sign on to the resolution by clicking here. Their voices are needed now.
- Under the direction of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, Agudas Yisroel is organizing an Atzeres Tefillah in response to this unprecedented attack. Tefillah is a most powerful weapon; it must be utilized during this eis tzarah.
- In addition, Chavrei Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah have stated that the following kapitlach of Tehillim should be recited daily, with kavanah: 83, 130, and 142. All shuls are requested to insert these kapitlach after davening; those davening individually should recite the same.
While the Department of Homeland Security has informed us that they are aware of no credible, organized threats against Jewish institutions in the U.S., our constituents are encouraged to exercise enhanced vigilance at this time. Agudath Israel’s national and regional offices across the country have been in contact with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, many of which have increased patrols.
Americans in Israel who have not yet filled out the U.S. State Department intake for, should do so immediately by clicking here. Americans who do not wish to leave Israel at this time should still complete the form, as the information provided will provide the State Department with an accurate accounting of Americans citizens present to assess the situation. The questions in the form include your plans for leaving the country if applicable and whether or not you need assistance to leave.
May Hashem heed our tefillos – and may we share besuros tovos.