BRIEFING ROOM

It’s been three years since the horrific October 7th attack, yet the pain lingers not only on this anniversary but every day. For families who lost loved ones, the heartbreak does not grow easier, and for those carrying physical and emotional scars, life will never be the same. On October 7th, Israel changed forever.

The impact of the Hamas attack and the war that followed has reached far beyond Israel. Since that day, we have witnessed a frightening rise in antisemitism around the world and here at home. Jewish students have been targeted on college campuses, and synagogues and Jewish institutions have faced threats, prompting heightened security. October 7th changed not only how we see Israel but also how we see our place in the communities where we live.

Israel continues to face threats from those who want to see it destroyed, while support among some longtime allies has eroded. Yet even amid war, loss and uncertainty, Israelis have shown extraordinary resilience. They have continued to build, innovate and create. Israel’s technology sector remains a leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, medical technology, agriculture and climate technology. That resilience is a powerful reminder that October 7th did not stop Israel from looking toward the future.

At the same time, support for Israel is becoming increasingly politicized here at home. Polls show a sharp decline in support among younger Americans. What was once one of the few issues with strong bipartisan support is increasingly a political wedge issue and a litmus test for candidates. We can no longer assume that Congressional support for Israel, or the foreign aid that strengthens this vital relationship, will always be there.
 

This is why the work we do at JAC matters. We have to make sure our voices are heard. We need to engage candidates and elected officials and ensure they understand why Israel matters and why fighting antisemitism matters—not just to the Jewish community, but to our country. Hatred undermines democracies. The haters want to back us into a corner and force us to choose between Israel and the democratic values we hold dear. That is a choice we will never make. We can fight antisemitism, support Israel, and continue fighting for reproductive freedom, racial justice, immigrant rights, gun violence prevention, and the separation of church and state.

Historians will debate the lessons of October 7th for generations. But what should never be debated is the need for a Jewish, democratic homeland where Jews can live safely and freely, and where peace is the norm—not the exception.

Three years later, we remember those we lost. In their honor, we continue to fight for a safer Israel and a safer Jewish community here at home.



May their memories be for a blessing.