Cease-Fire to End 11-Day Tensions 

With more than 12 hours into the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, we are pleased to see relative calm restored to the region. However, the relentless rocket attacks from terrorist groups in the Gaza Strip have caused loss of life, terrible injuries and extensive damage. Millions of adults and children lived in fear for the past 11 days and raced for shelter each time the sirens sounded. 

The Associated’s support for our Israeli partners and family is unwavering. We mourn the loss of life of Israelis and Palestinians alike and denounce the terrorists and their proxies who seek to harm Israel and their own citizens. 

The Associated continues to work with its overseas partners, the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), and the Israel Trauma Coalition, thanks in part to the unrestricted support of the Annual Campaign, in providing critical assistance to those suffering in Israel, particularly those in our partner city of Ashkelon, just 6 miles from the Gaza Strip.

Close to Home

Yesterday afternoon, the home of our beloved colleague, Sigal Ariely, suffered a direct hit by rocket fire. Sigal has been our long-time professional representative and staff member coordinating all Baltimore-Ashkelon activity. Sigal is safe, but her son was slightly injured. We have spoken to Sigal, and she and her family are strong and resilient. We send our love to Sigal and her family. 

Please consider posting a message of support to the Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership Facebook Page.

Stay Informed

The situation in Israel and the events leading up to it are very complex. We encourage you to learn about the history, the precipitous events and the response to better understand this latest crisis. We have compiled a few resources for you: 

Attend: An Exclusive Virtual Briefing for Baltimore 
Hear first-person accounts about recent events and challenges of daily life in Israel through The Associated’s Insight Israel Forum and the Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership on Monday, May 24. Fearing Sigal Ariely, Director, Baltimore-Ashkelon Partnership and Avi Melamed, President, Inside the Middle East. 

Read: The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) Updates 
Collected and consolidated information from Israeli officials on the ground and remains in close contact with authorities and our partners. 

Watch: Webinar with Michal Cotler-Wunsh, former member of Knesset for the Blue and White Party and current scholar at JFNA 

Watch: Webinar with IDF International Spokesperson Lt. Colonel Jonathan Concricus

Rise in Antisemitic Acts 

According to the Anti-defamation League (ADL), there has been an alarming rise in antisemitic acts across the world since the violence in Israel began. These incidents targeting Jews cannot be tolerated. We are committed to fighting antisemitism around the world and want to make sure you are protected. If you have experienced any form of antisemitism directly, please report it here. 

The Associated, Baltimore Jewish Council and ADL are tracking this information to combat hate in our own community. We encourage all social media users to report any misinformation or antisemitic rhetoric online. Together, we must combat hate.

Continue to Help Israel 

Last week, we opened an Israel Emergency Fund to assist those impacted by the violence. 100% of your donation supports victims and their families, provides trauma relief, assistance for victims of terror and needed emergency supplies. Because of your generous support, we have already been able to supply aid to those overwhelmed in local Ashkelon shelters, including providing mattresses and air conditioners. Click here to contribute to the Emergency fund. 

Our friends at the Baltimore Jewish Council (BJC) encourage us to reach out to our members of Congress. They need to hear from our community that we appreciate their support of Israel. Please take a few minutes to call the Washington offices of our elected officials and thank them for their continued support. 

We pray for a lasting agreement toward peace and wish you and your loved ones a peaceful Shabbat.