January 16, 2025
When Germany surrendered to the Allied Powers on Victory in Europe Day in May 1945, the celebrations that followed around the world were tinged with sadness at the death and destruction wrought by the war. Today, we should rejoice at news reports that the terms of a ceasefire in Gaza have been agreed, at long last. At the same time, we cannot forget the devastation and suffering that this war has brought to the homes of Jews, Palestinians, and others who have tragically been caught up in the conflict.
We are cautiously optimistic that some hostages will be released beginning very soon, with more to follow. We pray for their speedy return and their well-being. We also pray for an abundant flow of food and aid to the Palestinians in Gaza, who have been living in desperate conditions for the past fifteen months.
Then, the process of rebuilding, healing, and rededication to the goal of ending the conflict. At the signing of the Camp David Accords in 1978, which brought peace between Israel and Egypt, Prime Minister Menachem Begin said: “No more war, no more bloodshed, no more bereavement. Peace unto you, shalom, saalam, forever.” May his words come to fruition and the reported ceasefire agreement be the first in a series of steps that lead to a secure and just peace between Israel and the Palestinian people. Only then can our rejoicing and relief be complete.
-Rabbi Andrea London
