Dear A.,

For the last ten weeks, we have called on Congress and the administration to stand with Israel and ensure our ally has the resources it needs to protect its people. Yesterday, Congress took action by passing one of the most important bills we lobby for to keep Israel safe.

The National Defense Authorization Act contains $500 million for Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow – remarkable systems that have protected Israelis from the 12,500 rockets fired at them since October 7.

The bill also includes $55 million for counter-drone technologies, nearly 40% higher than last year. It establishes $47.5 million for cooperation on A.I. and cyber defense, and millions more to ensure Israel can detect and destroy terror tunnels.

And it contains many other programs we worked hard to include, to ensure America and Israel work even closer together to address shared threats.

This is a major achievement that will keep both countries safer. You helped make it possible, at a moment when Israel needs America’s support most.

Iron Dome was activated over Jerusalem today, as Hamas launched a barrage of rockets at the holy city just before Shabbat. Videos show interceptions over the Temple Mount and Al Aqsa Mosque, demonstrating once again that Hamas is willing to kill anyone it can – regardless of their faith or background – for the chance to murder Israelis. One rocket reportedly fell near a hospital in the Palestinian city of Ramallah.

Israel facilitating more aid into Gaza:

Today, the Israeli government announced the reopening of the Kerem Shalom Crossing for the first time since Hamas attacked it on October 7. While Israel has already facilitated and inspected daily transfers of aid from Egypt into Gaza, the U.N. agencies responsible for delivering it have failed to keep up with the volume. Israel will now transfer hundreds more truckloads into the Strip from the Israeli side of the border.

The announcement came during National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s trip to Israel, where he met with top officials and the War Cabinet. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told him that, "It will last more than several months" to dismantle Hamas' terror infrastructure, "but we will win and we will destroy them."

A senior U.S. official also said that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s "days are numbered" and that "it doesn’t matter how long it takes…justice will be served."

"I won’t let them break me."

Families across Israel are lighting Shabbat candles for the tenth week since their loved ones were brutally ripped away. 132 hostages are spending another dark night in Gaza.

The hostages who have returned home continue to share their stories.

85-year-old Yaffa Adar was kidnapped on October 7, and seen in videos being taunted and paraded through Gaza. As Hamas terrorists filmed her, she was determined to smile, knowing that her children and grandchildren would see the footage.

"I won’t let them break me," she said. "I want my children to be proud of me."

Yaffa’s bravery in the face of unthinkable horror epitomizes the Israeli spirit, and the resilience of an entire nation determined to live in freedom. I encourage you to watch and share Yaffa’s story.

Shabbat Shalom and Am Yisrael Chai.

Cory Meyer
Digital Engagement Director