Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg has released the following statement following today’s news of the release of all remaining living hostages.
Phil said: “We welcome with immense relief the release of hostages from Gaza and share in the profound joy felt by their families, friends, and all who have worked for their safe return.
We also grieve with those who are now receiving the bodies of their loved ones for burial. May their memory be a blessing.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all international and regional leaders whose efforts helped bring about this agreement, particularly US President Donald Trump.
We thank, too, the many in our community who have given countless hours to the support the hostages, including organising and attending vigils, adopting hostages, undertaking legal representation for the families, or simply displaying the yellow ribbon. These efforts reflect our eternal bond with Israel and its people.
We also welcome the surge of aid into Gaza and support all efforts that enable Palestinians to rebuild, whilst ensuring Hamas cannot re-establish its terror state or play any role in the future governance of Gaza.
In our political engagements we will continue to convey the overwhelming desire of the British Jewish community for a lasting peace.
In the UK, this moment must also prompt reflection. The profound damage to community cohesion and the massive increase in antisemitism since 7 October 2023, culminating in the deadly terrorist attack in Manchester on Yom Kippur, require a concerted response.
We will continue our efforts to ensure action against anyone who incites violence and hatred. We also need to see a renewed focus on building community cohesion and mutual respect.
We have all had enough of war. Now is the time for peace.