49 days after the October 7 massacre, 13 Israelis kidnapped by Hamas were released back to Israel.
Seeing the faces of young children, mothers, and elderly being brought home brings great joy and renewed determination to ensure the 215 remaining hostages are freed.
This deal to pause fighting in exchange for the release of 37 more hostages over the next three days was made possible by the success of Israel's military operation in Gaza to pressure Hamas in unprecedented ways.
When the fighting resumes in 72 hours, America must continue to stand by Israel – and we must continue to urge Congress to provide Israel the resources, diplomatic support, and time it needs to win this war.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said yesterday that the intense fighting in Gaza could take at least two more months.
Our work together is more important than ever and we must always be strong enough to defeat those who are determined to see us fail. On a personal note, yesterday morning, my wife Meryl and I were awoken by anti-Israel protestors who vandalized our property, set off smoke bombs in our yard, and injured a neighbor. The Los Angeles Police Department responded and authorities are taking appropriate actions.
Meryl and I are safe, and more resolute than ever. We deeply appreciate the outpouring of support from the community. We will never be deterred from our vital work to keep Israel safe and advance the U.S.-Israel relationship.
Tonight, Jews around the world will gather for a bittersweet Shabbat. We are grateful for the return of these 13 hostages and the brave heroes of the IDF risking their own lives to protect their country and families.
We appreciate the Biden administration and Democrats and Republicans in Congress who have been steadfast in their standing with the Jewish state. Their ironclad support for Israel, through statements, votes, and actions, has been instrumental in Israel's military successes in Gaza and in ensuring the return of these hostages.
We grieve with the families of the 1,200 Israelis who were murdered on October 7, and mourn the 70 soldiers killed in the 49 days since.
Our hearts break for the families of the 215 hostages still captive underground in Gaza. Yet we are resolute and unyielding in our support for Israel until all of them return home and until Israel destroys Hamas.
Shabbat Shalom,
Michael Tuchin
AIPAC President
The 13 Israelis kidnapped by Hamas that were released back to Israel today.
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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