We wake this morning with more tragic news from Israel. New counts put the death toll at more than 600 Israelis killed, the population equivalent of 24,000 Americans. More than 100 have been abducted by Hamas and taken into Gaza. Thousands are injured, including hundreds in critical condition.
Heartbreaking stories are pouring in of kids who were kidnapped or killed, teenagers and young adults who were murdered in cold blood, parents and grandparents killed or missing, families desperately praying for answers about loved ones they haven’t heard from. Last night on CNN, Jake Tapper interviewed a mother whose two children were kidnapped.
This morning, there were more Hamas infiltrations along the border by land, sea and air with paratroopers, kamikaze drones and armed drones, and the IDF is still fighting terrorists to regain control of Israeli communities.
Amid these battles, thousands of rockets continue to be launched into Israeli cities. More than 5,000 rockets have been fired in 30 hours. Watch as Iron Dome intercepts countless rockets last night.
The military is currently conducting air strikes in the Gaza Strip, destroying Hamas targets ahead of what is expected to be a large-scale ground war to destroy the terrorist threat.
Major General Ghasan Alyan, the head of COGAT and an Israeli Druze, released this video statement, saying "Hamas made this decision and Hamas will bear the responsibilities and pay for its deeds."
In a powerful video, hundreds of soldiers preparing for war in Gaza came together to sing Hatikvah.
The next days, weeks and potentially months will see the Israel Defense Forces take on an unprecedented and long operation.
We have an essential role to play as Israel embarks on this fight to protect its families and future. Together, we must ensure that America’s leaders continue to support the Jewish state no matter how long this takes.
In statements and in actions, we must ensure that Congress and the administration stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel – providing needed resources and diplomatic support for this most consequential battle.
May God protect the people of Israel and the brave soldiers of the IDF.
Sincerely,
Adam Harris
Director of Communications
The mission of AIPAC is to encourage and persuade the U.S. government to enact specific policies that create a strong, enduring and mutually beneficial relationship with our ally Israel.
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