Washington, DC – In a powerful and heartfelt address to the General Assembly of the Jewish Federations of North America on November 11, 2024, President Isaac Herzog of Israel painted a vivid picture of resilience, courage, and unity. Speaking to a packed audience in Washington, Herzog’s words were anchored in a solemn reality: “101 Israeli women, children, and men are still missing. They have been at the mercy of Hamas terrorists for over 400 days.” His plea was clear – for the Jewish people around the world to remain steadfast in their support and commitment to bring their loved ones back.
Standing alongside the families of hostages, Herzog underscored the emotional weight borne by those families and all Israelis. He called upon the American Jewish leadership to intensify their efforts, joining Israel in what he described as a sacred mission to rescue those still in captivity, saying, “There is no mitzvah greater than redeeming captives, Pidyon Shvuyim.” His call was urgent, infused with a passionate determination to bring every hostage home.
Herzog’s speech then took a reflective turn, recounting the traumatic events of October 7, 2023, which shattered a peaceful Simchat Torah celebration with the devastating dawn of an attack. Since that day, he and his wife, Michal, have traveled throughout Israel, meeting with survivors and families, witnessing both grief and strength. Herzog shared intimate stories, including the heroic final moments of IDF Captain Roi Nahari, a young paratrooper who courageously saved lives before succumbing to fatal wounds. Herzog described how Roi’s family displayed profound resilience in the face of loss, choosing to honor Roi’s life with dignity and pride.
This theme of “choosing life” resonated deeply as Herzog recounted his journey with Michal across Israel’s war-torn communities, laying wreaths, lighting yahrzeit candles, and praying for the hostages. The journey, he reflected, revealed a strength unique to the Israeli spirit and the Jewish people: the choice to rebuild, even when faced with overwhelming tragedy.
Herzog also recognized the American Jewish community’s unwavering support in Israel’s time of need. “The warmth and the affection expressed by world Jewry gave Israelis a lifeline and motivation to persevere,” he said, praising the Jewish Federations for their new campaign to aid Israeli communities. He extended gratitude to JFNA leaders and acknowledged the international Jewish community’s unity in the face of adversity.
As the world grapples with rising antisemitism, Herzog spoke directly to American Jews, acknowledging their struggle and the pain of seeing hatred infiltrate communities, campuses, and workplaces. With empathy, he emphasized Israel’s commitment to safeguarding Jews worldwide, standing by them in the fight for their security and dignity.
In a significant diplomatic note, Herzog congratulated President-elect Donald Trump on his recent victory, commending his efforts toward Middle East peace. Herzog extended special thanks to outgoing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their consistent support of Israel and the Jewish people.
Herzog’s speech echoed a central message: Israel and the Jewish community are bound by a shared destiny. He called for collective action, emphasizing the existential threats posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and underscoring Israel’s determination to defend itself and its allies. He acknowledged the importance of unity, referencing his “Voice of the People” initiative, which seeks to engage Jewish voices globally in shaping a more secure future.
Reflecting on the defining moment of October 7th, Herzog reminded the assembly of the strength and courage found in solidarity. He urged the Jewish people to face challenges together, drawing strength from their shared values. “We fight for our people, we fight for our Jewish values, we fight for our Jewish souls,” he declared passionately. Herzog inspired his audience to not only mourn together but to rise and rebuild, forging a path forward grounded in hope and resilience.
As he concluded, Herzog left the audience with a resounding message: the strength of the Jewish people lies in their choices. “Choosing life is hard; it means facing the pain every day. But Am Yisrael Chai—‘the people of Israel live’—is not a birthright, nor a privilege. It is a duty, and it is a choice.” His words left a powerful impact, a call for unity and resilience in the face of adversity, a reminder that “our hope is not lost.”–News Desk