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This Shabbat, Israel let out a collective but cautious sigh. Yet no one will allow a full exhale until every hostage is back in the arms of their loved ones. The air is still thick with tension, the nation suspended between hope and heartbreak, riding that relentless emotional roller coaster that has defined the past two years.
The peace plan agreed upon by Israel and Hamas offers a rare glimmer of light amid two years of anguish. But diplomacy is fragile—it can unravel as swiftly as it comes together. For now, Israelis are holding on to a long-forgotten feeling: cautious optimism.
When the hostages finally return home, they will be embraced by a country that has been waiting for them with open hearts. Yet their journey and Israel’s will not end there. Healing will take time. The scars, both visible and unseen, may never fully fade. But perhaps, with peace, they will soften and begin to hurt a little less.
The work ahead will be as delicate as it is essential. Behind the scenes, diplomacy must continue with urgency, wisdom, and steadfast care. The United States must persist in its efforts with Arab partners to ensure that today’s feelings lead to lasting stability. This cannot be just another headline; it must be a turning point. There is too much at stake for Israel, the reigns, and the world.
And even when the hostages return home, our fight will not be finished. Antisemitism continues to grow at an alarming pace. The hatred that fuels violence against Jews still must be addressed. all the while, Israel remains surrounded by nations that want to see it destroyed.
The past two years have significantly transformed Israel, affecting its people, politics, and global standing. Support for Israel, even among Jews, has fallen. We now need to work on healing those divisions. We must reignite the shared vision of Israel as a vibrant, democratic Jewish homeland that symbolizes hope and peace in a turbulent region.
At JAC, we will continue to work to strengthen the U.S.-Israel partnership by electing candidates who believe in Israel’s peace and security and oppose the rising tide of antisemitism and bigotry.
Tonight, our Shabbat candles will glow a bit brighter.
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