OPINION: Our Jewish values shape our response in times of crisis
Chief Executive of World Jewish Relief describes the charity's work in Gaza, authorised and encouraged by Israel's COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories)
Our Jewish values are more than just ideas – they serve as a guiding force in the difficult and often complex work of supporting those in need. They remind us to actively participate in alleviating human suffering, no matter where it occurs.
Our work in Israel and Gaza is a direct reflection of these values. When Hamas launched its evil attack on 7 October, it inflicted unimaginable trauma and suffering on innocent civilians, and after 21 agonising months, the remaining hostages are yet to return home. World Jewish Relief responded on behalf of the Jewish community by scaling up our mental health support, trauma care, and resilience training to the local Israeli population. This collective effort, carried out in partnership with trusted organisations, is helping thousands of Israelis endure the trauma that will undoubtedly echo through generations.
At the same time, our efforts in Gaza embody the Jewish imperative to care for others beyond our own community. Working closely with the Israeli authorities, we are extending a project to provide specialised care to newborns, support mothers with antenatal and postnatal care, treat children experiencing malnutrition, respiratory infections and other health conditions, and vaccinate children against polio. The field hospitals supported by this work do not employ Gazan Ministry of Health staff, nor do they treat armed combatants. Their sole purpose is to save lives and alleviate suffering, consistent with our Jewish values.
This work is authorised and encouraged by COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), an arm of the Israel Defence Forces that uniquely reports directly to the Ministry of Defence, mandated to coordinate all civilian issues in Gaza and the West Bank, between the Government of Israel, the Israel Defence Forces, bi-lateral partners, international organisations, diplomats and the Palestinian Authority among other counterparts. It operates under fully approved Israeli government policy.
Our efforts in Gaza, supported across the community including the Office of the Chief Rabbi, the United Synagogue, Masorti Judaism, Progressive Judaism, the S&P Sephardi Community, UJS, the Board of Deputies and the Jewish Leadership Council, shows how our ancient teachings continually guide our modern responses. It reminds us that caring for others — whether in Israel, Gaza, or anywhere facing hardship — is not optional but essential. The core values of compassion, justice, and the pursuit of peace are not just ideals but active principles that we live by every day.
In this time of darkness, our Jewish values serve as a guiding light. They compel us to support those in need, stand against hatred, and dedicate ourselves to making a difference. The work we do reflects the divine calling to repair the world and to act with kindness, justice, and responsibility.
Our shared faith imbues us with purpose. It reminds us that in every act of compassion, we uphold our highest ideals and continue the long tradition of caring for all of humanity.
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