Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

At this moment, one hundred and nine treasured human beings are being held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. They are Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists. … The youngest hostage is a one-year old red-headed baby boy and the oldest is an eighty-six year old mustachioed grandpa. Among the hostages are eight American citizens. One of those Americans is our only son. His name is Hersh.

Rachel Goldberg-Polin

This is a political convention. But needing our only son and the one hundred and nine hostages home is not a political issue. It is a humanitarian issue. … We know the one thing that can most immediately release pressure and bring calm to the entire region: a deal that brings this diverse group of one hundred and nine hostages home and ends the suffering of the innocent civilians in Gaza.

Jonathan Goldberg-Polin

Rachel Goldberg-Polin concluded the speech with her familiar refrain: “Hersh! We love you. Stay strong. Survive.”

We echo that message to all hostages who remain alive. Many have died in captivity. This is heartbreaking. Jonathan Goldberg Cohen said, speaking for the hostage families, “The time is now."

Peace and Strength,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill

WATCH: Parents of Hamas hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin speak at 2024 Democratic National Convention | PBS News