Chaverim y'karim - dear friends,

 

With all that I have read, listened to, and watched over the last few days, the quote "this is what 'Never Again' looks like" is the quote that stays with me. 

 

Israel is at full-scale war level and we are living through remarkably frightening and fear-filled days. However, Israel's attack on Iran is what happens when we take the expression "Never Again!" as seriously as we take the constant and repeated calls for our destruction. What other nation in the world has openly called for the destruction of another nation, broadcasts it consistently, and even has a "countdown clock" in a prominent square in its capital? 

 

Israel has taken Iran's repeated call to eliminate Israel - and actions to support that call - seriously and responded accordingly.

 

The death tolls and destruction in Israel are gut-wrenching. 

The death tolls and destruction in Iran are unknown but surely there are innocent lives lost in this war, which, like the death tolls in Gaza, are unfortunate and ultimately the responsibility of the regime that puts its civilian population under threat. 

 

There are many resources for you to consider - most of which are updating regularly. I highly recommend The Times of Israel and The Free Press for outstanding and reliable journalism. Both sites offer podcasts as well. You will also want to make sure to check the Blogs Section of The Times of Israel for a wonderful range of perspectives. 

 

For background and framing, you might want to check Jew Oughta Know and Boundless Insights with Aviva Klompas. 

 

With all that is going on, my list of prayers are many as I pray ... 

 

... for a world when the Jewish nation is allowed to live as we aspire: a free people, in our land, the land of Zion and Jerusalem. 

... for a world where our living hostages are able to return safely and murdered hostages are able to return for proper burial. 

... for a world where other leaders rise to help rebuild a Gaza Strip that is - as was intended with Israel's withdrawal in 2005 - a place for Palestinians to live freely and peaceably with Israel. 

... for a world where the Iranian people are able to be free to live, worship, develop, speak with openness and fairly and not beneath the authoritarian rule that subjugates its people and stifles creativity. 

... for a world where we never again have to use weapons in order to stay alive. 

 

As you seek your own prayers, our liturgy and siddur as a whole offer great resources. You might consider the prayer for hostages (Acheinu - for our brothers and sisters held in bondage), Psalm 121 (Esa Einai - I lift my eyes), Oseh Shalom (May the One who makes peace) and Hashkiveinu (May God grant us peace and life).

 

Please join me and our local community on a Zoom Wednesday evening (7pm) coordinated by the Jewish Federation of Western CT. Our hour together will combine updates, prayers, and reflections. Details here.

 

May this stage of the war conclude swiftly and decisively with Israel's soldiers and pilots safe and successful. May Israel's citizenry be secure and well-protected. May those whose loved ones have been killed in this battle find support and comfort from their family, neighbors, and loving souls around the world. And may there be quiet soon and speedily.

 

L'shalom, 

 

Rabbi Mark Cohn, 17 June 2025