J Street is shocked, outraged and horrified by the surprise, ongoing terrorist onslaught launched by Hamas against Israel on Shabbat and Simchat Torah/Shemini Atzeret.
At least 700 Israelis have been reported killed and at least 2,000 wounded in an unprecedented infiltration of dozens of terrorist gunmen into communities near the Gaza border and a barrage of indiscriminate rocket fire against Israeli cities. Terrifyingly, dozens of Israelis have been kidnapped and taken hostage. Many have been trapped in their homes waiting desperately to be saved, as live combat in border communities is ongoing. This is a time of profound anguish and horror. Israel is in a state of war and national emergency.
J Street stands in solidarity with the Israeli people in this hour of terrible danger, fear and worry. We stand with the Israeli armed forces working furiously to repel this assault, protect Israelis and defeat the terrorist onslaught. Our thoughts and our hearts are with all of the victims and their loved ones, and in particular with the many communities facing bombardments of rocket fire, infiltrator attacks and the kidnapping of family members.
Hamas’ murderous actions must be met with unequivocal condemnation from the entire international community. We hope for their swift and decisive defeat, and urge the US government to do everything possible to assist the State of Israel in confronting this threat, defending its citizens, and preventing a slide into even further conflagration and suffering for Israelis and Palestinians.
This statement, originally made on October 7 immediately following the attack, was updated on October 8 to reflect the horrific increase in reported casualty numbers.