After three days of conflict, we are watching developments in the Middle East with both hope and concern. We hold hope that this moment could help bring about a new Middle East—one without the constant threat posed by the Iranian regime and its proxies—and concern for the dangers of retaliation facing our Israeli family and the U.S. servicemen and women carrying out operations in the region.
The Iranian regime remains bent on retaliation—seeking to inflict as much damage as possible on its neighbors and especially on the State of Israel. That retaliation has already taken a heartbreaking toll: eleven Israeli and four American lives have been lost. Over 250 missiles have been fired toward Israel, injuring hundreds and causing massive destruction to homes and critical infrastructure.
Our community has been there for the people of Israel through unimaginable struggle—through the horrors of October 7 and the long aftermath that continues to test their resilience. And we are there again now—because “family” is not a metaphor for us; it is a responsibility. In moments like these, Jewish Detroit responds the way we always have. We stand united, and we act.
To meet the most urgent needs on the ground, the Jewish Federation of Detroit has released $250,000 to the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Fund for Victims of Terror. This Fund is designed for precisely these moments— delivering urgent emergency assistance within 24–48 hours to those directly impacted, and sustaining families as they recover in the weeks and months ahead.
Our dollars will bring relief where it is needed most: to the injured and traumatized, to bereaved families, and to those whose homes—and sense of safety—have been shattered. Today, the Fund for Victims of Terror is operating on a wider scale than ever before. Our partners on the ground are also offering evacuation options, psychological support and ongoing care to thousands of Israelis.
Locally, Jewish Community Security, Inc. (JCSI) remains fully engaged and vigilant, coordinating closely with law enforcement and security partners, and reinforcing heightened vigilance and existing security protocols across our institutions.
Tonight, we find ourselves on the eve of Purim—a holiday that calls out across centuries with a message that feels painfully current. Purim is the story of the Jewish people facing an evil decree in ancient Persia and refusing to disappear. It is the story of a community discovering—when it mattered most—that it was stronger together than it ever could be alone.
There is another essential Purim teaching, too: we are commanded to give, to care for those in need and to turn empathy into action. That is not only a tradition; it is our identity. It is what Jewish Detroit has always done. It is who we are at our best. We are only able to be there for the people of Israel, and for those in need in our own community, thanks to the generosity of our Annual Campaign donors. We deeply appreciate your commitment to the Jewish people.
May this Purim bring safety to Israel, comfort to those who mourn and courage to all who protect life. And may our community—here in Detroit and across the world—continue to be a source of strength, generosity and hope.
Chag Purim Sameach. Am Yisrael Chai.
JFD president signature
President
Jewish Federation of Detroit
Michael Berger
President
United Jewish Foundation
Steven Ingber
CEO
Jewish Federation of Detroit