US Reform leader says ‘no doubt’ Hamas to blame for latest violence

The Association of Reform Zionists of America, the main pro-Israel Reform Jewish group in the US, condemns Hamas for the rocket fire that led to the latest escalation in violence.

“Nearly 200 rockets and other projectiles have been launched from Gaza into Israel, injuring dozens and sending tens of thousands of Israelis as far inland as Ashkelon into bomb shelters. No nation can or should be expected to allow such attacks,” ARZA head Rabbi Joshua Weinberg says in a statement.

“There is no doubt where the blame sits for the worst wave of violence since the 2014 Gaza war,” Weinberg adds. “This week Hamas has again shown its true colors. As we stated recently: There appears to be no doubt that Hamas has made cynical and violent use of those Gazans who seek a more hopeful future. The continued tragedy of Gaza shows the strong need for a regional agreement, including Egypt and other Arab states, and for the US to play an arbiter’s role in finding a just solution to the Israeli-Palestinian situation.”

Weinberg concludes: “Our prayers are with the Israelis huddled in bomb shelters today. We also pray for the residents of Gaza, who are being used by Hamas. And we urge Israel to protect her citizens, as she must, and to always bear in mind that there are many in Gaza who seek nothing more – or less – than to live in peace.”