Over the past two weeks, numerous terrorist attacks have been perpetrated against Israeli citizens across the country. This is a different type of terrorism than in years past. While previously it was planned and coordinated by terrorist groups like Hamas and Fatah, it is now seemingly being perpetuated by Palestinian young people, lone wolves, responding to falsehoods on social media and using weapons of opportunity like knives and screwdrivers. Ultimately, it is fueled by fear and frustrations at the stalled peace process and lack of hope on both sides.
In times like this, Jews have always found it helpful to turn to Psalm 18, “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies” (Verses 2 and 3). The Jewish people once again turn to God for strength and courage to persevere in the face of these random, unpredictable and savage attacks.
The people of Israel are not alone; people of conscience and Jews around the world support them. That support will be felt next week as thousands of the world’s Zionist leaders will descend upon Jerusalem for the World Zionist Congress. We stand side by side with Israel in this hour of need. We unequivocally condemn this onslaught of Palestinian terror and call on leaders from the United States, Canada and other countries to do the same.
While we feel saddened, we hope and pray these attacks will end quickly, that no one else is murdered or injured and that Jerusalem will be able to fulfill its namesake and become a city of peace.
Rabbi Steven Wernick, CEO and Margo Gold, International President
United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
