Jerusalem, June 15, 2025 – In an emergency briefing convened by The Jewish Agency, Chairman Maj. Gen. (Res.) Doron Almog addressed leaders from 60 global Jewish communities, stating:

“The State of Israel has just endured one of the most difficult nights in its history — deadly missile barrages struck the center and north of the country, leaving hundreds injured and ten people dead, including children. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish a full recovery to the wounded. At the same time, we stand ready to assist in every way possible, together with our brothers and sisters in the Jewish world, to strengthen the State of Israel.

This is a moment that demands deep responsibility, mutual commitment, and unwavering determination. The Jewish Agency is present everywhere — on the frontlines in Israel, with new olim (immigrants) and those en route, in communities worldwide, and with our people across the globe. This is a crucial moment for the Jewish people, and we will stand together — in dedication and in action.”

The briefing was held for Jewish community leaders from around the world, with opening remarks delivered by Chairman of the Board of Governors Mark Wilf.

Jewish community leaders from more than 60 communities joined the emergency meeting, led by Secretary General Josh Schwarcz, in light of the ongoing war with Iran. The Jewish Agency has activated emergency protocols, including a 24/7 situation room in Jerusalem and an international emergency operations table, responding to needs across dozens of Jewish Agency frameworks serving thousands of participants from both Israel and communities around the world. This includes approximately 6,000 new olim (immigrants) in absorption centers, more than 7,000 residents of the Amigur senior housing facilities, thousands of young adults from abroad currently participating in programs in Israel, and hundreds of volunteers and students in youth villages across the country.

Jewish Agency CEO Yehuda Setton stated: “We are entering a new phase of war, following 20 months in which conflict has persisted both in Israel and throughout the Jewish world. We are fully prepared to support our olim (immigrants), our seniors, and young people from around the world visiting Israel at this time. This includes psychological support and, above all, ensuring their safety and well-being. Jewish history teaches us that when we stand united, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. That’s why we are gathered here today — with our partners from the World Zionist Organization, the Jewish Federations of North America, and Keren Hayesod — for the sake of the people of Israel and Jewish people everywhere.”

Since Thursday, The Jewish Agency has been operating in full emergency mode. An expanded situation room and emergency management table, led by Deputy Director General Moshe Shiff, continues to function around the clock. Meanwhile, the Global Aliyah Center in Jerusalem remains operational, providing support to those with upcoming Aliyah plans.

Hundreds of Jewish Agency shlichim (emissaries) — whose ranks have been recently increased — are actively working to strengthen Jewish communities around the world as they, too, face growing threats. The JReady Community Resilience Network continues to offer tools, knowledge, and immediate support, while The Jewish Agency’s Security Assistance Fund for Jewish Communities stands ready to help bolster security worldwide.

“In the shadow of this war,” said CEO Yehuda Setton, “we are closely monitoring developments and prepared to offer immediate assistance to any Jewish community in need of urgent security support.”

The response from community leaders was truly remarkable — voices from every corner of the world echoed a shared commitment: “Just tell us what you need.” There was an immediate, heartfelt readiness to act and support. The spirit of mutual responsibility was palpable, even over Zoom, and underscored the strength and unity of the global Jewish community in these challenging times. At the close of the meeting, they all united in a spontaneous, heartfelt chorus of Am Israel Chai.

Chairman Almog concluded: “The war with Iran presents immediate challenges across many levels — from individual citizens to the national stage in Israel. At the same time, Jewish communities around the world are also facing unprecedented situations that demand thoughtful and rapid responses.

We are ready to face these challenges together — fortified by our mutual responsibility and sustained by the hope we refuse to relinquish, even in the darkest moments.”

Media Contact:
Noa Amouyal, JCubed Communications
Noa@JCubedPR.com

About The Jewish Agency for Israel:

Since 1929, The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future. Today, The Jewish Agency acts collectively to strengthen Israel and the Jewish people worldwide—by advancing Aliyah as a core value, deepening connections between our global Jewish family, supporting the resilience and security of global Jewish communities, and encouraging every Jewish person to engage with Israel. The Jewish Agency also continues to be the Jewish world’s first responder, prepared to address the Jewish people’s greatest challenges and respond to emergencies in Israel, and to rescue Jews from countries where they are at risk.