Utah Jewish Federation, Gov. Gox stand by Israel after deadly Hamas attack

Oct 7, 2023, 11:00 AM | Updated: Nov 30, 2023, 5:50 pm

Associate Producer

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Jewish Federation, along with several Utah leaders, are expressing their support of Israel after Hamas militants conducted a surprise attack in Israel early Saturday morning.

Hamas is the largest militant group in Palestinian territories and one of the two major political parties. Israel has now declared a state of war with Hamas, after militants fired thousands of rockets into towns near the Gaza Strip and sent fighters into Israelian streets.

The New York Times reported that Israeli and Palestinian officials confirmed the attacks have killed nearly 300 people with hundreds more wounded.

In response to this attack, the deadliest in Israel in years, the United Jewish Federation of Utah is voicing its support for Israel.

In a press release, Executive Director Alex Shapiro wrote, “the United Jewish Federation of Utah along with the Jewish community of Utah stand in total and complete solidarity with our Israeli brethren.”

Shapiro explained that many members have spoken to family and friends who are hiding in their homes through the attacks. He said their community is being called to defend the southern border before an escalation in the north.

Political support

Many United States politicians have shown their support of Israel through their social media accounts.

President Joe Biden condemned the attack in a press release. He said he has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and that “we stand ready to offer all appropriate means of support to the Government and people of Israel. Terrorism is never justified.”

Today, I spoke with @IsraeliPM about the appalling Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. I offered our support and reiterated my unwavering commitment to Israel’s security. @FLOTUS and I express our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.

— President Biden (@POTUS) October 7, 2023

Utah leaders are also showing their support for Israel. Gov. Spencer Cox discussed Utah’s long-standing relationship with Israel in an X post, saying, “we will stand by our ally as they face the aftermath of an unjust attack on their country and people.”

Utah has a long-standing relationship with Israel, and we will stand by our ally as they face the aftermath of an unjust attack on their country and people.

Our hearts go out to all those affected by this act of terrorism. Israel, and its people, will be in our prayers.

— Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox (@GovCox) October 7, 2023

Additionally, Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah, wrote a few words on his X account as well.

“I was saddened to wake up to news of Hamas’ attack on the State of Israel,” he wrote. “I fully support Israel and their right to defend themselves, and I pray this conflict ends swiftly.”

I was saddened to wake up to news of Hamas’ attack on the State of Israel, prompting a state of war to be declared. I fully support Israel and their right to defend themselves, and I pray this conflict ends swiftly. #utpol

— Congressman Blake Moore (@RepBlakeMoore) October 7, 2023

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Utah Jewish Federation, Gov. Gox stand by Israel after deadly Hamas attack

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