American Friends of POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Stands in Solidarity with Israel

Dear Friends,

We are appalled by the brutal assault on Israel by Hamas. The number of killed, injured, and taken hostage continues to rise. More than 1200 people in Israel have been murdered and 2400 injured, with over 150 hostages as of this moment. Entire families killed in their own homes. Innocent civilians – children, women, the elderly – are the victims. Among them are our friends, colleagues, and family. These are people we know and cherish. Our hearts break with each loss. The tragedy is unfathomable, also for innocent civilians in Gaza.

American Friends of POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews stands in solidarity with Israel as it faces this barbaric attack by Hamas. We urge everyone, government officials and citizens everywhere, to condemn Hamas's terrorism and atrocities and to express unqualified support for Israel’s right to defend itself.

Jews from Poland played a vital role in the establishment of the State of Israel. They were among the signatories to Israel's Declaration of Independence, and they were among the Jewish state’s first presidents. This is a history of which we are justly proud and that we continue to defend in this dark hour.

We must make our voices heard loud and clear and continue to hope for a resolution to this conflict that will bring lasting peace.

Sincerely, 

Andrzej Rojek 

President, American Friends of POLIN Museum