Statement of the EAJC in connection with the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on the State of Israel

Dear Friends,

On the final day of the autumn holidays, the celebration of Simchat Torah, we awoke to devastating news. From 6:30 AM until Saturday evening, over 4,000 rockets and missiles were launched at Israel, while Hamas terrorists infiltrated Israeli territory, executing an unprecedented series of terrorist attacks against innocent civilians. As of now, 200 fatalities and more than 1,100 casualties have been confirmed. The full scale of this tragedy is yet to be realized.

The Israeli civilian population is currently facing a horrific onslaught by the Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorist organizations. Both entities are designated as terrorist groups by both the United States and the European Union. It is my sincere hope that following today's barbaric attack, other nations and organizations will condemn these actions and take decisive measures against Hamas and its sponsors. The severity of the situation is reminiscent of the most tragic terrorist attacks in modern history.

This ordeal is far from over. Long and challenging days lie ahead.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the nations and organizations that have stood in solidarity with Israel. As the situation remains extremely volatile and complex, I must emphasize that while Israel remains committed to international law, it possesses the absolute right to defend itself against the attacks of a terrorist organization that systematically violates all international norms and treaties. We urge you to make your support heard. Stand with Israel on social media, in official statements, press releases, as well as at the governmental and parliamentary levels within your countries, in international forums, and across civil societies.

As President of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress, I declare our total support for the Government of Israel and the Israel Defense Forces. We will do everything within our power to support and protect Israeli citizens, aid those in need, strengthen international relations, and mobilize global support for Israel.

In response to ongoing challenges and threats, we have dedicated significant efforts over recent years to bolster security along the Gaza border, which included contributing to the construction of a security bypass road, installing dozens of bomb shelters, and planting a protective forest buffer.

Amidst today's tragic loss of life, I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the grieving families. Notably, our partner and colleague, Ofir Libstein, Mayor of the Sha'ar HaNegev Regional Council, fell in battle against terrorists while defending his homeland.

Upon meeting Ofir, it immediately became clear to me how deeply committed he was to securing the communities bordering the Gaza Strip and how highly he valued the lives of those residing in Israel. Together, we worked on projects to install mobile bomb shelters in Sha'ar HaNegev and construct the security bypass road in the border kibbutz of Nir Am.

Only six months ago, one such shelter was inaugurated in Kibbutz Ruhama. Regrettably, this was not enough to prevent the atrocities committed by bloodthirsty terrorists. They did not limit themselves to rocket attacks, but infiltrated Israeli territory to take hostages.

We will not let this stand. Israel will respond to terror with all its might. The response will be unlike anything the Middle East has seen before. We will prevail in this war.

May the memory of the deceased be a blessing, and may they rest in peace.

Wishing you peaceful days and with high regard,

President of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress, Dr. Michael Mirilashvili.