First Lady Jill Biden and Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, exchanged heartfelt letters expressing their solidarity and support amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hamas terrorist group. The office of the Israeli Prime Minister made the letters available to the public, describing them as “personal and moving.”
In a letter addressed to Ms. Netanyahu, the first lady expressed her deep concern for the people of Israel in the face of what she described as an “unconscionable terrorist attack.” The conflict, which has seen over 2,800 deaths reported on both sides, has evoked heartfelt empathy from the first lady. “Like so many Americans, I am deeply concerned for the people of Israel in the face of this unconscionable terrorist attack. Our resolve is clear—even though our hearts are broken,” wrote Ms. Biden. “We stand with the state of Israel and its people, always. You and Bibi are in my prayers.”
Ms. Netanyahu, in her response on Friday, thanked the first lady for her heartfelt message during these trying times. She described Ms. Biden’s letter as “a ray of light” in the midst of “disheartening” circumstances and expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from both Jill and President Joe Biden. “Your words entered and warmed my broken heart. Thank you. You are a true friend,” Ms. Netanyahu wrote. “Bibi and I appreciate that and the unwavering support you and Joe have shown us. Today and always. At the moment, we share a broken heart, but Israel’s resolve will see us emerge victorious in this war of good over unspeakable evil. We have no other choice. Thank you for your prayers.”
Israel declared war on Hamas following its first wave of attacks on Oct. 7. The Israeli military aims to strip Hamas of “any ability to strike, harm, kill any Israeli civilians.” In response to the attacks, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have launched targeted strikes on the vast underground network of tunnels in Gaza utilized by Hamas for attacks. President Biden compared Hamas to al Qaeda, stating that they are “pure evil.” He assured that the United States stands with Israel and is providing support for its defense.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin have traveled to Israel to show support. The United States is also working with other governments and the United Nations to provide humanitarian aid for Gaza citizens. President Biden emphasized the suffering of innocent Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas and stated that the majority of Palestinians have nothing to do with the attacks.