Reform Movement Statement on the Death of Yahya Sinwar

October 17, 2024 - The singular focus of Sinwar’s life was the annihilation of Israel and the Jewish people. He is directly responsible for the death of thousands of Israelis and Palestinians. On this festival of Sukkot - when we are commanded to rejoice - we will not celebrate the death of this diabolical terrorist. We will, however, express our relief that millions of innocent people will sleep better tonight knowing he is no longer among the living. 

Most importantly, his death provides Israel an opportunity to bring the hostages home after a year of languishing in Hamas’ brutal captivity and bring an end to this long and deadly war that has caused terrible suffering to the people of Israel and the innocents in Gaza. 

We pray that all those who have been caused pain by the actions of Sinwar find comfort and healing and that the souls of those whose lives he took find peace.