Linda Sadacka
Just over a year ago, Israel teetered on the edge of civil war, deeply divided over the judicial reform advanced by the government. The proposed changes to the method of appointing Israel’s Supreme Court, and the extent of its authority, ignited a firestorm that fractured Israeli society and sent shockwaves through Jewish communities worldwide. The unity that once bound us together seemed fragile, frayed by political discord; the solidarity that had once defined our people felt distant and almost out of reach.
Then, on October 7, 2023, Israel faced its darkest day since the Holocaust. Nearly 1,200 innocent lives were brutally taken, and some 250 hostages were dragged into captivity. The grief was unbearable, and plunged our entire nation into deep mourning. But from this unimaginable tragedy, something extraordinary began to emerge. Jews from all corners of the globe came together in an unprecedented show of unity to support Israel’s military and civilian efforts. This response not only showed resilience, but signified a rekindling of our shared faith, our collective spirit, and our deep-seated connection to one another.
Unity & Victory
This newfound ahdut (unity) did more than strengthen us spiritually; it also led to tangible victories. A prime example is a meticulously executed military operation targeting Hezbollah. Thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies across Lebanon were detonated, killing 37 Hezbollah operatives and injuring over 3,000, effectively crippling their communication network. The assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah’s leader for over 32 years, marked a strategic turning point in Israel’s war against Hezbollah, which, backed by Iranian funding, has for decades posed a persistent threat to Israel, and has been launching rockets into northern Israel this entire past year. The dramatic assassination came amid the Israeli air force’s relentless bombing of Hezbollah ammunition depots, rocket launchers, and other assets, significantly weakening the terror organization’s capabilities. These achievements are the result of not only the country’s outstanding military and intelligence apparatuses, but also our collective commitment to Torah, hesed (kindness), and unity.
Supporting Our Troops
While Israel’s courageous, selfless soldiers have fought valiantly on the front lines, Jewish communities in the Diaspora have rallied with remarkable determination. One notable effort was led by the Sephardic Heritage Museum, which played a critical role in supporting soldiers and those displaced by the conflict. Through their dedicated efforts, 270 family members were reunited, and essential supplies – such as food and warm clothing – were provided to those in need. Spearheaded by community leaders including Harry Adjmi, David Azar, Morris Missry, Tzvi Benchaim, Mark Adjmi, and Elliot Sutton, this work exemplified world Jewry’s generosity and mutual devotion.
An inspiring example of the combination of Israeli resilience and our community’s generosity is Elad and Nava from the Drimia Winery, located in the town of Susiya in southern Judea. While Elad, an elite combat soldier, was deployed in Gaza, his wife, Nava, managed their farm and winery on her own. A number of our community leaders, including Daniel and Eileen Benun, rallied around them, organizing campaigns to support the winery, receiving an overwhelming response. Over 400 packages of Drimia wine were sold, with all proceeds going to support Elad and Nava during these trying times. This outpouring of support wasn’t just a gesture – it was a testament to the enduring unity of the Jewish people, both at home and on the front lines.
Support for the military effort has come even from communities that traditionally don’t serve in the army. The haredi communities – both Hassidic and Lithuanian – have mobilized to aid their brothers fighting on the front lines. Massive amounts of food are being delivered daily to soldiers along the Gaza border, ensuring that the troops are well-fed and cared for. This extraordinary effort from the ultra-Orthodox community reflects the deep commitment to unity that transcends religious and ideological differences.
While military and logistical support has been vital, another effort focuses on healing the emotional scars left by war. Maurice and Gail Setton, who are deeply involved with the Peace of Mind organization which helps IDF soldiers who experience trauma by providing therapy, have stepped up to meet the growing need, as a large number of soldiers struggle with the psychological effects of combat. The program culminates with a visit to a welcoming Diaspora community where soldiers receive intensive therapy, supported by host families. Eleven families in Deal, NJ, graciously welcomed soldiers into their homes, forming lasting bonds that continue long after the brief visit. The relationships forged through this initiative offer a lifetime of invaluable connection, healing, and support.
Deepening Our Connection
Community leaders such as Sammy Saka, Harry Adjmi, Jack Srour, Zvi Ben Haim, Isaac Massry, Jason Gindi, and Joey Sitt have also stepped forward, spearheading an initiative to develop a dedicated residential sector for our community in Jerusalem. In a time when deepening our connection to the land of Israel is more urgent than ever, this initiative represents a bold, forward-thinking approach to ensuring that the Jewish people remain united with their homeland, no matter what global challenges may arise.
In yeshivot, such as Areret Torah, teachers and institutions have responded to the call for unity by mandating daily prayers for Israel. Students are led in heartfelt prayers beseeching Gd for the safety and success of our beloved IDF soldiers, and the return of our hostages. This collective act of faith, encouraged by educators, reverberates throughout Jewish communities around the world, uniting us in prayer for Israel’s safety, strength, and ultimate redemption.
My own organization, Chasdei David, a registered 501(c)(3) powered entirely by volunteers, partnered with Rabbi Yitzchak David Grossman’s Migdal Ohr institution to distribute tefillin to IDF soldiers. Rabbi Grossman personally travels from base to base, providing warm meals and distributing “shaliach mitzvah” coins, encouraging soldiers to give charity after their service. His efforts have yielded miraculous results, with entire groups of soldiers surviving direct hits during battle in this merit. His work in Bikur Cholim, using a coin from the Lelover Rebbe, has also brought about open miracles, healing soldiers who had been given little hope. What stands out most is how many of these soldiers, who previously had little interest in Torah or mitzvot, now thirst for a spiritual connection. The horrors of October 7 sparked a deep desire within them to reconnect with their heritage and with Hashem. We stand ready to support their spiritual growth and help them strengthen their faith.
The Jewish World Unites
Of course, our communities are not the only ones who have opened their hearts to our brothers and sisters across the ocean. Throughout the Diaspora, Jewish groups have shown extraordinary solidarity. The MetroWest Israel Action Committee, led by Moshe Glick, organized a massive rally in Livingston, New Jersey, where over 6,000 people gathered to support Israel and demand the release of hostages held by Hamas. A towering nine-foot-tall milk carton displaying the faces of the hostages became a powerful symbol, turning the conversation from political discourse into a deeply emotional humanitarian plea: “Let Them Go.” Glick’s leadership helped refocus the narrative on what truly matters – bringing our people home.
At Yeshiva University, events like the Evening of Unity, Solidarity, and Story were held, bringing together survivors, community leaders, and students to honor the memory of those lost on October 7. These gatherings provided both spiritual connection and practical aid, reinforcing the Jewish community’s resolve to stand by Israel in its time of need.
In yet another extraordinary effort, Veronique from Great Neck led an initiative that has provided 650 meals daily for soldiers, hosted barbecues at the borders, donated tents serving as makeshift shuls and offices, and even sent cheesecakes for Shavuot and flowers for Shabbat. Veronique’s work is a shining example of the extraordinary lengths to which Jewish communities around the world have gone to support those on the front lines.
Beyond these grassroots efforts, countless organizations and individuals have fought tirelessly to safeguard the truth of the October 7 massacre in the face of rampant misinformation. These advocates have been instrumental in ensuring that the voices of victims and hostages remain heard, and combating false narratives that seek to deny or downplay the atrocities committed on that day.
What we are witnessing is not merely resilience, but a resurgence of national spirit rooted in unity. Whether we wear black hats, velvet kippot, shtreimels, or none at all, our strength as a people comes from standing together. This unity, transcending appearances and ideological differences, is the key to our success as a nation. As we move forward, this shared commitment to each other, our faith, and our homeland will guide us through these challenging times and lead us, please Gd, to our ultimate redemption.
Linda Sadacka is a prominent political activist and community leader, renowned for her influential social media platform @lindaadvocate.