ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - To our St. Louis Jewish Community:
On a holy day of the Jewish calendar, the people of Israel have come under attack. Hamas terrorists launched a horrific attack on Israel from Gaza, firing thousands of rockets, and breaching the country’s borders. Over 150 Israelis have been killed, more than 1,000 have been injured, and the numbers are increasing. There have been reports of civilian and army members captured and taken back to Gaza and hand-to-hand fighting between civilians and terrorists on Israeli streets. The Israeli government has declared a state of war.
The brave military forces of the State of Israel are responding and will defend our beloved Jewish state. And the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, along with Jewish Federations across North America will act immediately and comprehensively to support all our brothers and sisters as they defend Israel.
We will continue to be abreast of the situation and are reaching out to our friends, family, and our 20+ Community Partners in Israel whom we support and care for deeply. We will provide resources and information as it becomes available, and we will share ways we can come together as a community.
Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) will be holding a webinar tomorrow, Sunday, October 8th at 11:00 am Register here. The JFNA call will include a high-level security briefing and is open to everyone.
Today is not a day of simcha in Israel, but it is a day of solidarity, determination, and utmost seriousness. As we say the prayer for Israel today it is even more urgent and striking - ונתת שלום בארץ ושמחת עולם ליושביה - “Grant peace in the land and happiness to all its residents.”
We are here for all of Israel. Along with our local, national, and international partners, we will do everything we can to support the people of Israel. We call upon our community to join us in these efforts in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Your help and support of Israel will be needed and the Jewish Federation of St. Louis will coordinate community responses in person and through giving.
As of now, Amanda Miller tells KMOX, it is not known how many St. Louisans are in Israel, they are working to find out that information.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson released a statement on twitter:
"The shocking and unprovoked attacks on our nation's closest ally, Israel, cannot stand. Israel has a right to respond and defend itself against these terrorists threats.
I stand with Israel. Missouri stands with Israel. The United States must stand with Israel."
Also releasing a statement, Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth:
“My heart goes out to the people of Israel as they face these horrific, unconscionable and ongoing coordinated Hamas attacks and kidnappings on Simchat Torah.
The United States stands with Israel and its right to defend itself. The world must unequivocally condemn all terrorism.”