New York, NY – Harriet P. Schleifer, Chair, and William C. Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, released the following statement:
Fourteen months have passed since our loved ones were kidnapped on October 7, and their cries continue to call out to us, unabated. This week, those cries were particularly painful. We witnessed via video the continued torturous captivity of Edan Alexander; learned that Omer Neutra – whose body continues to be held by Hamas – was murdered on October 7; and noted the death of 97-year-old Gladys Siegel while her son Keith remains in captivity.
These developments constitute not just a cry but a scream that should pierce the heart of every decent human being, testifying to the ongoing monstrous cruelty of the Hamas terrorists and of the unacceptable passivity of those who stand by while claiming to champion justice and human rights. We must never allow ourselves or the world to forget for even a moment the ongoing horrific plight of the hostages held by Hamas, of every nationality and faith, whether living or dead.
Edan, Omer z’’l, and Keith — three of the seven US citizens being held by Hamas — are fellow Jews and outstanding human beings. As leaders of American Jewish organizations, we express our love and admiration for them and for their families. The barbaric attacks of October 7 showed the world the depths of depraved inhumanity to which some can descend. The Alexanders, Neutras, and Siegels – along with all the hostage families – continue to demonstrate the heights of grace, love, and commitment to which people can rise. Their dignity and strength in the face of the unimaginable have uplifted us all.
We remain committed to the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages as soon as possible. Their plight is not a political issue. Every individual and institution dedicated to justice and humanity, every government or organization with potential influence, must join Israel and the United States in demanding for this goal.
The Conference of Presidents and its members will continue to call out for action and to make our voices heard in every forum available to us, and we will continue to pray for the hostages and for their families until every one of them returns home. Am Yisrael Chai!
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The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations is the consensus-based recognized central coordinating body representing 50 diverse national Jewish organizations on issues of national and international concern. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of every member organization.
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