January 14 marks a day of profound sadness and reflection.
100 days since the October 7 massacre, the whole of Israel has changed and is still changing. More than 1,300 Israelis have been killed since Hamas breached a ceasefire and launched this unprovoked war. The wounds — physical and psychological — are countless, and both tolls increase daily.
Much of Israel’s focus today is with the families of the 136 hostages still being held captive by Hamas. The agony and heartache grow deeper with each passing day.
I encourage you to join Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s call to wear a strip of masking tape over your heart with the number 100 written on it — a powerful public statement and tribute to her son Hersh.
Included below my signature are graphics and videos we encourage you to post and share, including an image with all 136 hostages' names.
Speaking yesterday in New York City, 13-year-old former hostage Hila Rotem Shoshani said, "I came all the way here to call on the world — bring them all home! Life as a hostage is not a life. Their families are waiting for them! Now. Please!"
Israeli reports indicate that hospitals are preparing for the possibility of female hostages being released and returning home pregnant after enduring sexual assaults in Hamas captivity.
In the north, a mother and son were killed in their home by a missile fired by Hezbollah. The attack is the latest of strikes carried out by the Iranian-backed terror group using precision anti-tank missiles. These weapons can be accurate up to 5 miles.
In Gaza, fighting continues as the IDF presses further into Khan Yunis. The military says it has destroyed more than 700 rocket launchers since the war began. An agreement has been reached to facilitate more medicines into Gaza with the assurance that the lifesaving medications will be used to treat the hostages.
Crucial Senate Vote Tuesday
The Senate on Tuesday night will vote on a Bernie Sanders resolution that could cut off all American aid to Israel. This outrageous legislation would undermine the U.S.-Israel relationship at a time when we should be strengthening that bond.
We must ensure Senate offices hear from the pro-Israel community and vote NO.
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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