WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) — B’nai B’rith President Robert Spitzer and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:
“We thank the president and his team for their commitment to securing the release of all of the hostages Hamas is holding. He has made it clear that the return of all hostages is a priority for the United States. In its brutal, barbaric attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas murdered 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped some 250 others. Now, more than 515 days later, Hamas still holds Israelis hostage.
“Among the guests who attended the address were Orna Neutra and Ruby Chen, parents of Israeli-American hostages Omer Neutra and Itay Chen—murdered by Hamas—who were hosted by Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer. Also in attendance were Noa Argamani, a rescued hostage, as a guest of Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson, and Keith Siegel, the first American freed from Hamas captivity, as a guest of Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.). Their presence was an important way to highlight the hostages’ plight and to remind the world that Hamas started the war and continues the war.
“We appreciate that the president committed to a peaceful Middle East and referenced the historic Abraham Accords. The Abraham Accords are the key to lasting stability in the Middle East and we hope the administration will expand the framework over the next four years.
“In his address, the president updated the situation in Ukraine. We are pleased there is movement on this conflict. We support peace and security for Ukraine.
“We urge caution in reducing foreign aid, which amounts to a mere 1% of the overall U.S. budget and serves vital soft power aims. The international affairs budget includes aid to Israel and programs to counter terrorism and prevent conflict.
“B’nai B’rith’s work is vital as we continue to engage with Congress and the White House, along with the United Nations, to address pressing global challenges. For 181 years, we have been an unyielding advocate for Israel, Jewish continuity and older adults, ensuring that critical issues are heard at the highest levels of government. We continue to push for policies that combat antisemitism and reinforce Israel’s security and prosperity. Our commitment is unwavering: in the year ahead, we will stress to the president and other elected leaders that it is urgent they take a firm stand against anti-Semitism and enact policies that strengthen Israel’s security and prosperity. Silence is not an option—action is imperative.”
Preceding provided by B’nai B’rith International