A statement from Joel Citron, Board Chair

Dear Friends,

I am writing to you with profound sorrow. The murderous attack that occurred in Israel was an act of antisemitism in its most depraved form by a genocidal regime in Gaza sponsored by Iran, a country that repeatedly calls for the destruction of Israel. There can be no moral equivalence. “From the river to the sea” has only one meaning–the elimination of Israel. This was a massacre of people for only one reason—they were Jews.

As we witness the passing of those who survived the Shoah, nothing can be more chilling and heart-wrenching than knowing that they are experiencing these atrocities in Israel. My heart breaks for them, for the murdered and injured victims of this atrocity, for those now in captivity, and for all their loved ones, whose pain will never cease.

I stand in support with them, with Israel, and with Jewish communities and decent people all over the world.

The coming days and weeks will be very difficult, and we will undoubtedly be called on to help in any way we can.

Be safe and be strong,

Joel Citron
Board of Councilors Chair
USC Shoah Foundation