SAN DIEGO (SDJW) — In addition to the Jewish responses to Iran’s missile and drone attack that were posted Saturday night, April 13, other Jewish organizations weighed in on Sunday, April 14. They are printed below in the order received:
Leaders of the J7, the Large Jewish Communities’ Task Force Against Antisemitism, whose communities comprise the majority of the world’s diaspora Jews:
“The J7 expresses its unwavering support for Israel and the Israeli people, and unequivocally condemns the Islamic Republic of Iran for launching this unprecedented assault against the Jewish state. We are immensely grateful to the governments of France, the United Kingdom and the United States, and Arab states that assisted Israeli forces in intercepting this attack, as well as to those who expressed solidarity with the Jewish State.
“The firing by the Iranian regime of hundreds of drones, cruise missiles and ballistic weapons is a wholly unjustified act of war, and is further proof of the regime’s long-held and hate-filled desire to eradicate Israel and kill as many Jews as possible.
“We strongly support Israel in its efforts to defend itself against continued threats to its sovereignty posed by the Iranian regime and its terrorist proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis and others.
“Now is the time for our countries, and the international community as a whole, to designate the regime-sponsored Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in its entirety as a terrorist entity for their continuing violent threats to the region and beyond.
“The international community must stand strongly in support of Israel and do everything in its power to counter the danger posed by the Iranian regime to the region and international stability.”
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Combat Antisemitism Movement: “Iran has finally stepped out from the shadows of proxy attacks and has now begun its campaign of mass murder directly from its homeland. This escalation should spur all freedom-loving nations to stand with Israel against the Iranian regime.
“Iran’s actions were a significant miscalculation, and they will face the consequences. Nonetheless, we now celebrate a historic triumph: for the first time in military history, a threat of this scale has been countered so effectively. Let us honor our nation’s resilience and innovative spirit. Overnight, Israel received overwhelming support from countries worldwide. We are deeply thankful for this solidarity, especially from our closest allies—the United States, the United Kingdom, Jordan, and others.
“The genocidal ruling regime of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s attack on Israel is an attack on the Western world as a whole.
“This aggression is fueled by the virulent antisemitism of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his cadre of fanatical henchmen. Israel did not start this fight with Iran. The most recent belligerence started on October 7th, 2023 when Tehran’s proxy, Hamas, carried out a brutal massacre of civilians in Israel and has continued through attacks by Iran-backed Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border over the last six months.
“As Israel prepares to retaliate—and it will—I urge you to stand with Israel and the Jewish community, supporting us not only when we are attacked but also as we defend ourselves and fight back.”
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The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC) expresses its unwavering solidarity and support for Israel, its soldiers and its people seeking shelter at this very moment.
“It is deeply troubling to witness the escalation of violence and aggression aimed at Israel. The safety and security of the Israeli people must be paramount, and any attempts to undermine these fundamental rights must be met with unity and resolve.
Israel has long been a beacon of democracy and progress in the Middle East, a nation that has overcome countless obstacles to thrive and prosper. Israel’s resilience in the face of adversity is an inspiration to us all, and it is imperative that the international community stands firmly beside Israel in denouncing these acts of aggression.
“As Israel endures these trying times, we wish to let them know that they are not alone. We stand with all who condemn the violence perpetrated against innocent civilians, and we call for a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
“In the face of adversity, it is our shared humanity that binds us together. Let us continue to work tirelessly towards a future where all people can live in peace and security, free from the fear of violence and oppression.
“May strength and courage be our companions in the days ahead. Israel and its people are in our thoughts and prayers, and we will continue to stand with Israel during these challenging times.”
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Jewish Democratic Council of America: “Yesterday, Iran launched a barrage of drones and missiles targeting Israel. As we closely followed this wave of Iranian strikes, JDCA was deeply concerned about Israel’s security and the safety of the Israeli people. The only thing that brought us comfort amid this terrifying day was our certainty that President Biden has Israel’s back.
“Amid this unprecedented direct Iranian attack on Israel, President Biden demonstrated – in word and deed – his ironclad commitment to Israel’s safety and security. We join President Biden in condemning this egregious and aggressive Iranian attack on Israeli territory and are grateful for the President’s unwavering support of Israel.
“In advance of yesterday’s attack, President Biden positioned U.S. military assets in the region to help defend against Iranian aggression. It was because of this partnership that nearly all Iranian drones and missiles were intercepted, undoubtedly saving countless Israeli lives.
“At this precarious moment, we call on House Republicans to immediately act to fulfill President Biden’s unprecedented pledge of $14.3 billion in emergency military assistance for Israel, along with vital aid to Ukraine. For nearly six months, this aid has languished due to unconscionable Republican delays, politicking, and a House GOP effort in November to condition this aid. Make no mistake – if Democrats controlled the House, Israel would have already received this essential military aid.
“Jewish Dems demand that the Republican majority stop playing political games with Israel’s safety and bring the Senate emergency spending bill to a vote as its first order of business on Monday. This assistance – which President Biden pledged in October 2023 – is vital for bolstering Israel’s security and defenses at this difficult time.”
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Jewish Policy Center: The Jewish Policy Center stands, as ever, with the people of Israel in support of the legitimacy and security of the Jewish State.
“We reiterate as well that the Iranian government is the fulcrum of hatred and destruction in the region. From Iran itself through the Red Sea and across Yemen, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Gaza and, increasingly Jordan and Judea and Samaria, Iran venerates, funds, and promotes violence against Israel and against Sunni Arab communities.
“Details remain to be uncovered, and plans for the future laid out, but for now, there is actually some good news. The resilience of the Israeli people and the brilliance of Israel’s defense establishment and industries are awe inspiring. Missile Defense works. Not too long ago, President Ronald Reagan’s idea to “hit a bullet with a bullet” was mocked, but President Reagan and Israel get the last laugh. Israeli engineers, scientists, and military minds, supported by the civilian government, delivered a magnificent response to a malevolent attack.
“Israel’s partners deserve praise. The United States was where it always should be – at Israel’s side. Although Sen. Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats have a job to finish. The UK and France, vocal opponents of the Israeli government in recent months, responded as allies. And best of all, Jordan and Saudi Arabia participated in Israel’s defense. There is hope for the region in their choices and the Iranians can take no comfort from that.”
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Compiled by San Diego Jewish World.