The Orthodox Union, a major Jewish advocacy group representing over 1,000 synagogues in the United States, is planning a demonstration at the White House on April 3 to protest President Biden’s shifting policy towards the Israeli offensive in Gaza. They are gathering 180,000 letters to be hand-delivered to the White House, urging the President to support Israel without undermining its war effort, combat antisemitism, and secure the release of hostages. The group is collaborating with other Jewish advocacy organizations to reach their goal of 180,000 letters.
The Orthodox Union has initially shown support for the Biden administration following terrorist attacks on Israel, but their concerns have grown over the qualified support for continued offensives in Gaza. The U.S. recently abstained from a United Nations Security Council vote on demanding an immediate ceasefire, drawing criticism from the group. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has doubled down on plans to invade Rafah in Gaza, despite opposition from the Biden administration on humanitarian grounds. Vice President Kamala Harris has warned against such a move, stating that there is nowhere for the people of Rafah to go.
The Orthodox Union is urging the Biden administration to continue supporting Israel until the Hamas threat is eliminated. They hope that their demonstration and the delivery of 180,000 letters will bring attention to the urgency of ending the suffering of hostages, bringing them home, and removing the threat of Hamas. The organization is working with various Jewish advocacy groups, including the Jewish Federations of North America, Chabad on Campus, American Jewish Committee, and more, to reach their letter goal and amplify their message to the White House.
The Orthodox Union’s demonstration highlights growing concerns within the Jewish community about the Biden administration’s stance on the Israeli offensive in Gaza. The decision to abstain from the UN Security Council vote and reluctance to support continued military action in Rafah have raised doubts about the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s defense. The group is also calling for meaningful steps to combat antisemitism, an issue that has been heightened by the recent conflict and increased violence against Jewish communities worldwide.
The Orthodox Union’s protest comes as tensions in the region continue to escalate, with ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas. The group’s call for support for Israel and efforts to combat antisemitism reflect broader concerns within the Jewish community about the current situation in the Middle East. The delivery of 180,000 letters to the White House is intended to send a strong message to the Biden administration about the importance of standing with Israel in its fight against terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
Overall, the Orthodox Union’s demonstration at the White House represents a significant effort to advocate for continued U.S. support for Israel and raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The protest highlights the complexities of the situation and the challenges facing the Biden administration in navigating the delicate balance between supporting Israel and addressing humanitarian concerns in the region. By mobilizing a coalition of Jewish organizations and delivering a large number of letters to the White House, the Orthodox Union is seeking to amplify its message and push for concrete action to address the crisis in Gaza and combat antisemitism.
