11- 01- 23
Dear Dr. Manohar,
Thank you for writing to me.
The people of Israel lived through a moment of pure evil on October 7 when more than 1,300 civilians, including Americans, were murdered by the terrorist organization Hamas.
The reports of atrocities are seared on our souls: Parents killed while trying to protect their children. Young people massacred while attending a music festival. Entire families slain. And so many more innocents wounded or taken hostage.
For many across the United States, Hamas’ terrorist assault was not only painful—it was personal. It resurfaced horrible memories left by millennia of antisemitism and genocide. And it was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust—one of the worst chapters in human history that reminded us all that silence is complicity.
I want you to know I will not be silent. The United States stands with Israel. We will continue to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself against terrorism in accordance with international humanitarian law. I will bring all resources to bear to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas—including our fellow Americans. I will also do everything possible to ensure civilians are protected, provide humanitarian aid to innocent Palestinians, and prevent this conflict from spreading across the region. And I will continue to work steadfastly with partners to pursue peace and a two-state solution so that the Israeli and the Palestinian people can both enjoy equal measures of security and dignity.
Here at home, I have directed my team to identify, prevent, and disrupt any domestic threats that could emerge against Jewish, Muslim, Arab, or any other communities. There is no place for hate in our world. Not against Jews. Not against Muslims. Not against anybody. Under my Administration, the United States will continue to combat antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hate. And we will continue to reject terrorism and its indiscriminate evil, just as we have always done.
That is what America stands for.
Sincerely,