Press releases and statements issued since October 7, 2023.
Read a complete overview of longstanding positions on Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Reform Movement Statement on the Death of Yahya Sinwar
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.
American Jewish Organizations Urge Israeli Government to Prioritize Hostages Release Before High Holidays
The letter, signed by a broad group of 18 organizations, was delivered to Israel Ambassador to the United States Michael Herzog this morning
This morning, the undersigned American Jewish Organizations delivered a letter to Israeli Ambassador Herzog calling for the Israeli government to do everything it can to prioritize the lives of the hostages and sign a deal to secure their release in advance of the upcoming High Holidays.
Reform Jewish Leaders Mourn Six Hostages Killed by Hamas in Gaza
We join with millions around the world, including the tens of thousands of Israelis currently pouring into the streets, who are expressing their grief and anger over the murders of six hostages at the hands of Hamas.
Over 1,400 North American Jews Sign Petition Urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to Move Forward with a Negotiated Ceasefire and Hostage Deal
The petition, organized by the Union for Reform Judaism, was delivered to the Israeli Embassy this week.
Over 1,400 Jews from the United States and Canada signed a petition from the Union for Reform Judaism urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to heed the voices of the hostages' families and negotiate for a new ceasefire and hostage deal during the latest round of negotiations in Qatar.
Reform Leaders Respond to President Biden’s Statement on Ceasefire Plan
As we prepare to welcome Shabbat, we pray that today’s announcement by President Biden will hasten a peaceful and secure future for Israel and the Palestinians.
Conference of Presidents Members Rebut Statement on Majority Leader Schumer Meeting
We are deeply disturbed by the condemnatory statement issued yesterday by the Conference of Presidents (COP) following a meeting with Majority Leader Schumer.
Reform Leaders Respond to Majority Leader Schumer’s Address on a Pathway to Peace and Two-State Solution
Majority Leader Schumer’s love of and care for Israel’s future is unquestioned, as is his commitment to a peaceful future for Israelis and Palestinians alike. We pray that his vision of two states, side by side in peace and security, can someday be made real.
The Moment We Are In, The Future We Pray For
A Statement from Reform Movement Institutions
With an eye toward the future we envision, we offer these steps we hope Israelis and Palestinians will take at this moment of intense challenge and deep pain. We do so because of the bond and love we feel for our Israeli siblings.
Bound Together for Good
Rabbi Rick Jacobs delivers his Shabbat sermon at the URJ's 150th anniversary gathering.
Reform Movement Responds to International Court of Justice Ruling on Israel-Hamas War
The ICJ has done a disservice to those around the world who are truly victims of genocidal regimes acting with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group – as defined under international law.
North American Reform Jewish Movement Renews Call for Release of Hostages Held by Hamas
As we mark the 100th day of the war initiated by Hamas's brutal terrorist attack on communities in southern Israel, the North American Reform Movement raises our collective Reform Jewish voice to demand the liberation of the more than one hundred thirty hostages held in captivity by Hamas since October 7.
Reform Movement Calls for Swift Release of Hostages, Humanitarian Pause to Hasten Aid for Palestinian Civilians in Gaza
As we approach Shabbat and mark three weeks since Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel, our hearts are heavy and our souls pained as Israel continues the excruciating task of burying the over 1400 people murdered by Hamas.
Reform Movement Thanks President Biden for Solidarity with Israel; Urges Swift Release of Hostages and Humanitarian Relief
Among those whose embraces we have felt so powerfully, few equal those of President Joe Biden, who, in this darkest hour, in word and deed has proven himself a true friend to Israel and the Jewish people.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs' Shabbat Message of Compassion and Strength
As we prepare to enter Shabbat, many of us find ourselves continuing the heartfelt prayers we have been saying for the safety of friends and loved ones in Israel.
Reform Leaders Respond to Hamas Terrorist Attacks in Israel
We stand in complete solidarity with the people of Israel, so many of whom are directly in harm’s way, and pray for all those who are defending the State.