Mourning and Looking Forward

Dear friend,

This weekend, we were all devastated to learn of the murders of six Israeli hostages by Hamas: Carmel Gat, Alex Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, Ori Danino, Eden Yerushalmi, and Hersh Goldberg-Polin. May their memories be a blessing and their families be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

We stand with all Israelis in agony over the fate of the remaining hostages and join the call to bring them all home now.

Since October 7, Israel has had a right and responsibility to fight Hamas in order to restore security for the citizens of Israel, and an obligation to do all it can to free those taken captive. 

After 11 months of war, Israel has dealt Hamas a severe blow, but a complete and total victory through military means alone is a chimera. We celebrate the remarkable rescue operations that have led to the release of eight hostages. At the same time, the limits and risks of military action to release hostages are clear, as we have been reminded time and again that Hamas has no regard for human life. Last December, a negotiated deal led to the release of 105 hostages alive, and another deal remains the best way to free those who remain in captivity. 

To make a deal with terrorists is a truly painful act, and we do not minimize the severity of the sacrifices being considered. We also have no assurance that Hamas will agree to a deal. Nevertheless, we stand with the families of those held captive in urging that every avenue possible be pursued to reach a deal to secure the release of hostages while many are still alive. To save their lives is to save a world—and a country. 

Israel will not be able to move forward as a unified nation until the hostages are returned home. 

Israel must have security, which can only be achieved through a sustained, determined fight against terrorism and a dogged pursuit of diplomatic opportunities and alliances. 

We urge the United States to support Israel’s security and to continue to work toward a hostage and ceasefire deal that would not only end this round of conflict, but launch regional diplomacy and begin the process of rebuilding from this horrific chapter.  

National Vigil for the Hostages

Tonight | Tuesday, September 3 at 8pm ET

Israel Policy Forum is proud to be a supporting partner of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum and Adas Israel's National Vigil for the Hostages tonight. Please join us and others as we honor the six cherished souls we’ve lost and unite for those still waiting to return.

Join in person at Adas Israel Congregation in D.C. or on the livestream below.