The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and its member organizations, representing the broad mainstream of American Jewry, join together in a profound moment of gratitude and renewed purpose following the release of the surviving hostages from Gaza.
Two years ago, as Israelis celebrated Simchat Torah, one of the most joyous times of the year, Jews around the world awoke to the horrific news out of Israel. This year, in this season of renewal and reflection, we rejoice once more, renewing the joy of the festival with the joy of the return of our hostages and an end to the war. We celebrate the return of those released alive and call for the immediate repatriation, under the terms of the agreement, of the bodies of those killed in captivity, so their families may find peace and closure.
We remember the brave IDF soldiers and civilians who gave their lives, and those who were injured, defending Israel and protecting its people. We also remember the Israeli civilians who were brutally murdered in their homes and communities on October 7th, and the hostages who were killed in captivity. Their courage and sacrifice will forever be a source of strength and inspiration to the Jewish people. We also pray for ongoing healing for those who have already returned from captivity, and those injured in battle.
The journey to this moment was marked by profound loss and anguish. Yet throughout, the American Jewish community remained united in its core commitments: to Israel’s security, to the safe return of the hostages, and to our concern, love, and care for our Israeli brothers and sisters. We honor the courage and resilience of the Israeli people, whose steadfast spirit strengthened and sustained us throughout this ordeal. Moments such as this remind us that the strength of the Jewish people lies in our unity, our compassion, and our unshakable commitment to one another.
We express our profound gratitude to the Almighty for bringing us to this day of relief and renewal. We are deeply grateful to President Trump and his administration for their leadership and resolve in achieving this historic breakthrough. We applaud the members of Congress, from both parties, who resolutely stood with Israel throughout this war. The progress achieved reflects the enduring strength of the United States–Israel relationship, an alliance grounded in shared values, common interests, and mutual trust.
As we look to the future, we do so with cautious optimism and a shared sense of responsibility. Full implementation must be verified, and accountability must be ensured. Israel must retain the ability to defend itself and deter aggression, including against the threat of ballistic missiles and terror infrastructure. Hostage-taking must never again be tolerated or used as a tool of negotiation. Hamas must be fully disarmed and removed from power.
This moment must also mark a turning point for Palestinian leadership: to renounce terror, end the “pay-to-slay” system, and begin the hard work of building a future grounded in peace, accountability, and cooperation. We also recognize the suffering of civilians in Gaza who have endured hardship under Hamas’s brutal rule and two years of war, as additional aid begins to flow under the terms of the agreement now being implemented. We pray that their future will be one of hope and security, free from the grip of terror.
At times, our community has spoken with many voices. Today, we speak with one. We stand together with Israel and with Jewish communities around the world, united in gratitude, faith, and resolve.
May this spirit of unity strengthen our people, sustain Israel’s security, and guide us toward a future built on courage, partnership, and enduring hope. We pray that G-d spread a canopy of peace over Israel and all who seek peace and security. Together, we will continue to work for Israel’s safety, the unity of the Jewish people, and a stronger, more secure world.
Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations
| Alpha Epsilon Pi | Jewish Federations of North America |
| American Friends of Likud | Jewish Institute for the National Security of America |
| American Israel Public Affairs Committee | Jewish Labor Committee |
| American Jewish Committee | Jewish National Fund – USA |
| American Jewish Congress | Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago |
| American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee | Jewish Women International |
| American Sephardi Federation | Mercaz USA, Zionist Organization of the Conservative Movement |
| American Zionist Movement | NA’AMAT USA |
| AMIT | NCSEJ – National Coalition Supporting Eurasian Jewry |
| Anti-Defamation League | National Council of Jewish Women |
| ARZA | National Council of Young Israel |
| B’nai B’rith | ORT America, Inc. |
| BZ Media | Rabbinical Assembly |
| CAMERA | Rabbinical Council of America |
| Central Conference of American Rabbis | Religious Zionists of America |
| Emunah of America | UJA-Federation of New York |
| Friends of the Israel Defense Forces | Union for Reform Judaism |
| Greater Miami Jewish Federation | Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America |
| Hadassah, Women’s Zionist Organization of America | United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism |
| HIAS | WIZO |
| Hillel International | Women of Reform Judaism |
| Iranian American Jewish Federation | Women’s League for Conservative Judaism |
| Israeli-American Council | World Zionist Executive, USA |
| JCC Association of North America | Zionist Organization of America |
| Jewish Council for Public Affairs |
