URJ’s Positions and Statements on the Israel-Hamas Conflict, Post-October 7th

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Since the horrors of October 7th, we have brought the power of our Movement’s voice to bear to call for the return of the hostages, ensuring Israel’s long-term security, and ending the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We remain resolute in our love of Israel, unwavering in our commitment to a robust Israeli democracy, and unyielding in our opposition to extremists whose actions and ideologies threaten Israel’s well-being and the ability of its people to live in peace and security.

As part of our commitment to the safety and security of all Israelis, the URJ believes that a two-state solution is essential. By ensuring the establishment of an Israeli state and a Palestinian state living side by side in peace, we can guarantee a future where Israelis can live in lasting safety. The URJ has consistently opposed the ongoing occupation of the West Bank, the expansion of settlements, and acts of violence and extremism by the settler community, as we believe these actions jeopardize both Israeli security and the prospects for peace. For Israel to truly be safe, a viable Palestinian state must also be realized.

Below is a selection of statements, blogs, articles, social media posts and other pieces of content the URJ has written/issued since October 7th, reflecting our Movement’s position on a variety of issues related to the rapidly evolving situation.

Learn about the URJ’s longstanding positions on the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
 

Return of the Hostages

The window to return the hostages to their loved ones is closing quickly. Inspired by our tradition’s centering of Pidyon Shvu’im, the redemption of captives, we know that healing cannot begin until all the hostages are freed and accounted for.

 

Humanitarian Relief for Gaza

Many thousands of Gazans, including large numbers of women and children, have died or been wounded since October 7th and nearly 2 million have been displaced and unable to access essentials such as food, water, shelter, medicine, and electricity. Hamas bears responsibility for the war instigated by their attack and must be held accountable for any aid that has been diverted to its own coffers and away from the suffering innocent population. At the same time, Israel must reject dehumanization of the “other,” including Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and ensure aid sufficient to meet the tremendous need enters Gaza.


Aid to Israel

Israel’s long-term security depends on a strong U.S.-Israel relationship. U.S. military aid to Israel ensures offensive and defensive measures like Iron Dome to protect Israel from the threats posed by Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Houthis, and Iran – among others.

 

Ceasefire

We welcomed President Biden’s announcement this summer of a framework, endorsed by Israel, that was a step toward a meaningful ceasefire that would return the hostages, ensure Israel’s security, and end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We continue to urge Israel to move forward with a negotiated ceasefire that will ensure return of the hostages.


Palestinian Self-determination

The URJ has long expressed overwhelming support for a Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel, reached through a negotiated agreement between the two parties. Without a lasting solution that allows for Palestinians to realize their own aspirations of self-determination, Israeli and Palestinian children alike will continue to grow up in the shadow of hostilities rather than the brightness of peace. Israel’s long-term security depends on Palestinian self-determination, even as such steps may pose shorter-term security challenges that will need to be addressed.


Condemnation of Israeli Extremists

Extremists within Israel, including those serving in senior government positions, are a threat to peace, to Israel’s international standing, and to Israel’s future existence. They must be held accountable for their establishment of illegal outposts and settlements in the West Bank, their inciteful language and physical attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank, their destruction of aid heading to Gaza, and their provocative visits to holy sites.


Resources for Comfort, Education, and Advocacy

The trauma of October 7th has caused each of us deep pain. We mourn all those murdered, grieve for the bereaved, and pray for comfort and healing of the injured. The rise in antisemitism since October 7th has also been deeply concerning. We have created resources for comfort, education, and advocacy to support individuals, congregations, and communities.