Statement by Hon. Rev. Michael A. Blake on the October 7, 2023 Hamas Attack Against Israel

[View this email in your browser]( Statement by Hon. Rev. Michael A. Blake on the October 7, 2023 Hamas Attack Against Israel The pain and the loss of life to the people of Israel from an inhumane attack on October 7, 2023 will never be forgotten. We pray for healing, accountability, and policy changes that lead to long term peace. On that day, more than 1,200 people were killed and 251 people were taken hostage by Hamas during its assault. We must continue finding every possible way for the return of the hostages, which includes Americans, and be unwavering in our resolve to reunite all people with their loved ones.  No emotional or physical suffering, whether inside or outside of Israel, is acceptable, and let us not give safe harbor to antisemitism or hate of any kind. The path to peace begins by acknowledging Hamas' act of terror, mourning the losses, listening to the cries of parents, siblings, and spouses as we empathize with their unfathomable grief, committing to find every possible way to seek the safe return of the remaining hostages, and refusing to forget the horrible acts of that day so that they never happen again. Let us reflect on what it says in the Talmud: “Whoever saves one life saves the world entire."  In so doing, let us acknowledge the pain of this day and then let us also begin anew the quest for peace and security for all in the region. [Facebook icon]( [Instagram icon]( [Website icon]( [LinkedIn icon]( [YouTube icon]( [X icon]( Copyright (C) 2024 Atlas Strategy Group. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Our mailing address is: Atlas Strategy Group 1 Bruckner Blvd Bronx, NY 10454 USA Want to change how you receive these emails? You can [update your preferences]( or [unsubscribe]( [Logo]