The Zionist Federation of Australia welcomes the signing of the first phase of President Trump’s peace plan between Israel and Hamas. The plight of the hostages has consumed Israel and the Jewish community’s every waking moment since October 7. We are hopeful this brings to an end the devastating war Hamas started and Israel never wanted.
President of the ZFA, Jeremy Leibler, said “after 733 days in captivity, we are filled with cautious optimism that the remaining 48 hostages will be returned home to their families. We are also filled with immeasurable sadness that so many will not be coming home alive after being murdered by Hamas. Yet, we are filled with anticipation until the hostages are safely back on Israeli soil.
Hamas’ reign of terror has brought only destruction and despair to both Israelis and Palestinians. This peace plan must be the beginning of Hamas’ permanent removal from power in Gaza and its complete demilitarisation. Only then can Israelis and Palestinians begin to build a future based on coexistence and security.”
ZFA CEO, Alon Cassuto, said “for the Australian Jewish community, the hope of seeing the hostages finally return after two agonising years brings both deep emotion and profound relief. This day may yet close one of the most painful chapters in living memory.
We note that those who continue to protest against Israel, even as a peace agreement has been signed, reveal their true colours; they are not standing for peace, but against it.”