ISRAEL AT WAR: Operation Iron Swords | The Jewish Agency - U.S.ISRAEL AT WAR: Operation Iron Swords

ISRAEL AT WAR

Swords of Iron

Our immediate actions and continued efforts on the ground

Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, more than 1,600 Israelis have been killed, thousands injured, and hundreds abducted into Gaza. At the same time, Hezbollah has relentlessly launched rockets into northern Israel, displacing more than 76,000 residents and putting entire communities under threat.

The Jewish Agency’s response has been swift and comprehensive, prioritizing the safety of new olim (immigrants) and elderly residents while providing immediate and ongoing support to victims of terror. We are on the ground, offering evacuation options, resilience seminars, psychological support, and economic assistance to those impacted.

Even as the situation continues, we are working to rebuild disrupted communities and provide support for children and youth facing severe educational and social challenges. We are also connecting Jewish communities worldwide with those affected in Israel and strengthening communities around the globe as they face an unprecedented surge in antisemitism.

The Jewish Agency’s efforts rely on the generosity of The Jewish Federations of North America / United Israel Appeal, Keren Hayesod, foundations and donors worldwide, and people like you. Your support helps us deliver critical relief, enhance security, and ensure long-term recovery for those in need.

 

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OCTOBER 7TH: ONE YEAR LATER

Who our vital work has helped:

  • Oshri was shot by terrorists, with the bullet piercing his eye and throat, but miraculously survived. With a long road to recovery ahead of him, he’s receiving support from the Fund for Victims of Terror.

    Read his miraculous story
  • As the Director of Youth Futures - Ofakim & Merhavim, Nurit supported mentors on October 7 as Hamas attacked Ofakim, and is now overseeing Youth Futures’ efforts to continue to support its child beneficiaries and their families.

    Read more
  • Neta and her boyfriend, Santi, were at home in Kfar Aza when Hamas terrorists broke in and shot them. They managed to escape and Neta's father, a policeman, helped rescue them. Now recovering, they are receiving support from The Jewish Agency's Fund for Victims of Terror.

    Hear from Neta
  • The Kidron family survived the Hamas terrorists’ assault on their Kibbutz, Be’eri, but as one of the hardest-hit communities, with many killed, injured and kidnapped, and numerous homes destroyed, they are left wondering what will happen to them and their beloved kibbutz.

    Read more about the Kidrons

An update on our activities: 

Fund for Victims of Terror

As of early August, 10,250+ grants have been distributed or are in process, providing immediate financial assistance to victims impacted by the war and the families of those killed, wounded or kidnapped.

To support the Fund, donate here.

Emergency Grants and Loans for Businesses in the South

As of early August, we have provided over 20,579,000 ILS in emergency grants to 3,000+ small businesses operating in the south and north, as well as those owned by army reservists. We have also facilitated 198,640,000 ILS in interest-free loans to 730+ small businesses so far and have more applications still in process.

Shlichim

In the wake of the war, our Shlichim (Israeli emissaries) coordinated, attended and spoke at over 1,000 outreach activities including rallies and gatherings in solidarity with Israel occurring on college campuses and in cities and countries globally. Working with the Shlichut Institute, we are providing Shlichim with the necessary tools and resources to talk about the war and to pivot in their roles to best serve their local communities, especially amidst a rise in antisemitism.

Olim & Elderly in Jewish Agency Facilities

The Jewish Agency evacuated thousands of olim from the south and north to safer locations elsewhere in the country, including central Israel, Eilat and Ein Gedi, and organized respite activities and provided ongoing support. The overwhelming majority of these evacuees were new olim from Ethiopia, Ukraine and Russia, many of whom experienced rocket fire for the first time.

Additionally, approximately 5,000 elderly residents and Holocaust survivors live in The Jewish Agency’s Amigour apartments in the Southern and Central Israel regions. We have been supplying food packages and essentials directly to residents in need; 21,000+ food baskets have been distributed. We are also stocking communal bomb shelters with food and supplies.

Lone Soldiers

We are working closely with Wings, our program for lone soldiers serving in the Israel Defense Forces who do not have family in Israel, supporting our network of 2,200 lone soldiers, and sending social workers to visit those who have been wounded.

While we do not know how long this war will last, what we do know is that we will continue to be there for the victims, survivors and the global Jewish people during this dark time. To support our critical efforts, please donate today.

 

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