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Yaakov Hagoel

Yom Kippur 5785: Strength through unity in times of tragedy

On October 7, 2023, exactly 50 years after the Yom Kippur War of 1973 broke out, Israel faced an unimaginable tragedy as Hamas terrorists invaded our borders and our communities. Hundreds of innocent men, women, children, and even infants were barbarically murdered, burned, tortured, mutilated and kidnapped. Just a day later on October 8, 2023, and almost every day since, the Hezbollah terrorist group launched rockets at our citizens in the North, necessitating a mass evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. Both were chilling reminders that the existential threats we face as a people and as a nation are far from over.

Though a year has passed since that devastating day, the scars are still fresh. The pain and memory of the horrific events of the last year continues to cast a long shadow over Israel and the global Jewish community. The massacre, which tore through families and shattered lives, has left wounds that remain open, not just in Israel but across Jewish communities worldwide as unprecedented levels of antisemitism erupted globally. Israel remains in a state of war, defending itself against a genocidal enemy that crossed our borders and invaded our country with the intent to destroy and annihilate. Our brave soldiers are still on the front lines every day, and 101 hostages are still being held captive. The people of Israel, especially those in the North, are unable to return to their homes. It is a tragic reality that has become a part of our daily lives.

Yet, in the midst of these trials, we are reminded of our history — a history that is rich with lessons of resilience. The Jewish people have endured centuries of persecution, yet time and again, against overwhelming odds, we have risen and rebuilt. This past year has once again demonstrated the depth of our strength and the unbreakable spirit that has defined us for generations. Israel’s recent military operations, from Gaza to Lebanon, have sent a powerful message to those who seek to harm us. The elimination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and his top commanders was a significant victory, but it was more than that — it was a clear statement of Israel’s unyielding resolve to defend itself and its people. When faced with existential threats, Israel will always rise to the challenge with courage and determination.

But perhaps the most profound lesson from our history is the power of unity. In every generation, when external forces have sought to destroy us, we have united as a people. No matter the challenges we have faced, we have always found a way to overcome and strengthen our bonds. This moment in our history is no different. The unity that connects Jews in Israel and around the world will be our greatest strength as we face the challenges ahead.

This year the weight and pain of Yom Kippur is heavier than ever before. As we stand before G-d, reflect on the past year, and pray for the fallen, for the wounded, for the hostages, for the affected families and for all the people of Israel, I pray that this Yom Kippur will mark a pivotal moment in our shared future. That we will be empowered to demonstrate strength through unity and defeat the forces of evil and darkness which attempt to engulf us. United, we honor the victims and the heroism of our soldiers still defending us. United, we will triumph and build a future worthy of the sacrifices made, a future worthy of all the people of Israel.

About the Author
Yaakov Hagoel is the Chairman of the Executive of the World Zionist Organization. He was formerly acting chairman of The Jewish Agency for Israel.
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