As Israel faces an unprecedented war against Hamas terrorists, Yael Eckstein, CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ), is on the ground providing aid to those in need.
She reflected in an interview with CBN Digital on the horrific impact of Hamas’ attacks and why the entire world should be on notice.
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“I will never forget the second that I heard that Israel was in this unprecedented war,” she said, noting she was at synagogue Saturday, when her friend delivered the news — that Hamas had attacked and scores of Israelis were being held captive.
“It was a moment … I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” Eckstein said. “It’s really important to realize that, for all of us, this is personal. There’s not anyone here in Israel who doesn’t have a loved one who was affected in one way or another.”
She said the entirety of Israel is in a “state of shock and mourning” as the battle intensifies and people reflect on the painful loss of life and innocence.
“When we see babies beheaded, when we see women and their children being taken as hostages and raped … this is the epitome of evil.”
Watch her comments:
As for reports of anti-Israel protests and horrific chants aimed at the Jewish people at various events in the West, Eckstein said she’s disturbed but not surprised, especially considering the antisemitism still unfolding in some circles today. Fortunately, she said, most people decry such behavior.
“I am the granddaughter and daughter-in-law of Holocaust survivors,” she said. “I never lose sight that antisemitism is a form of hate.”
Eckstein continued, “But, unfortunately, there are many people who don’t stand for freedom, who don’t stand for godly values.”
She also shared what IFCJ is doing to help the Jewish people in the wake of these attacks. The organization is providing everything from food and essential resources to access to MRI machines, helmets, bulletproof vests, and bomb shelters.
After the war broke out Saturday, the IFCJ went “bomb shelter to bomb shelter” to bring food and resources. Those who lost their homes and belongings due to rocket attacks or fires are also being served by the aid organization.
“These are people who are going from living normal lives to not even having a credit card, shoes, or a car,” Eckstein said. “And so the fellowship has been there since Sunday, side by side, everything they need.”
The organization has even set up outside locations where bodies are being identified to provide snacks, water, coffee, and a place to sit.
As Eckstein reflected on the totality of everything that’s happening, she reminded people that Israel continues to fight for its survival — and this is the latest example.
“I just pray that the support that we’re feeling now will continue until we no longer face this threat of our children being taken to the Gaza Strip,” she said.
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