New York, NY — Betsy Berns Korn, Chair, and William C. Daroff, CEO, of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, issued the following statement:
“We welcome, with solemn relief, the identification of the body of IDF Master Sergeant Ran Gvili z”l and his return to Israel for burial. After a long and painful period of uncertainty, this moment brings solace to his family, whom we hold in our hearts, and to the entire nation.
“Today, 843 days after the horrors of October 7, the mission to bring the hostages home is complete. All 255 hostages are now returned to Israel. Forty-six were abducted alive and murdered in captivity. With this return, a painful chapter comes to an end. For the first time in more than a decade, no Israeli citizen remains held hostage in Gaza. This moment marks the close of an era and affirms a national promise that Israel does not abandon its own, in life or in death.
“We express our deep gratitude to President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and to the teams they lead, for their leadership and determination in securing the return of all of Israel’s fallen. We also honor the resolve of Israeli society and Jewish communities around the world who kept global attention focused on the hostages, sustained the families, and insisted that this mission be completed.
“We honor the memory of Master Sergeant Ran Gvili z”l and all those who gave their lives defending Israel. May his memory be a blessing.”
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The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations is the recognized central coordinating body representing 50 national Jewish organizations on issues of national and international concern. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the positions of all member organizations.
