2024 stands as one of the most challenging years in generations for Israel and the Jewish people. It was a year marked by unprecedented adversity, hardship, mourning, and ongoing challenges for Jews in Israel and globally. Yet, even in the face of these trials, The Jewish Agency’s response was nothing short of remarkable—our work has spanned the globe, as we continue to uphold our essential role on multiple frontlines. From Israel, gripped by the ongoing Swords of Iron War, to the farthest corners of the world, we have been and continue to be there, thanks to our global infrastructure and on-the-ground presence in over 65 countries.

Our 2024 Impact Report, titled Resilience In Action, showcases how our pivotal work in Israel and around the world met a new set of challenges that arose starting on October 7, 2023. That dark day, which brought so much hardship to Israel and the Jewish people, proved once again that the role of The Jewish Agency is crucial. We were there, before anyone else, to provide relief to victims and their families. We were there to support lone immigrant soldiers and Israeli businesses in peril. We were there and ready to expand care for vulnerable populations in Israel. And we were there to fortify Jewish communities facing an unprecedented surge of antisemitism worldwide and strengthen their safety measures and resilience. And to ensure the future of Israel, we continued to facilitate Aliyah and absorption, overcoming the challenges that emerged due to the war. And to foster unity and shared purpose, we connected Jews globally to each other and to Israel.

Of course, none of what we do would be possible without the vital and increased support of Jewish Federations, Keren Hayesod, the World Zionist Organization, foundations and donors from Israel and around the world, and without the steadfast leadership and efforts of our Board of Governors members and staff. The remarkable achievements of The Jewish Agency during this immensely difficult year are a testament to the strength of our collective unity. You are the reason we are able to be there for the Jewish people and Israel, bringing hope and providing help, even in the darkest of times.

We’d also like to give a special thanks to Amira Ahronoviz, who departed as our CEO and Director General in 2024, after years of incredible service and dedication to the organization. While she left big shoes to fill, we are heartened by the way our new CEO Yehuda Setton, who has an extensive history with The Jewish Agency, has proven he is up to the challenge and eager to lead the organization to even greater heights.

Since October 7 and throughout 2024, Israelis and Jews worldwide have mobilized in unprecedented ways. In Israel, civilians stepped up to meet urgent needs, while globally, Jews have rallied to defend Israel and engage in Jewish life more than they have in generations. The past year has shown us the immense power and unconditional love world Jewry has for the state of Israel, and looking ahead to 2025, we must sustain this momentum for the long road of recovery as we rebuild and fortify Israeli society. And it is more crucial than ever to remember that our greatest strength lies in each other and in our collective resolve.

With heartfelt gratitude for the hostages coming home, we continue to hope for the release of all those still captive. And we offer our unwavering support and deepest sympathies to the families who lost loved ones since October 7 and those of the many brave soldiers who gave their lives for the Jewish state, including the lone immigrant soldiers who came to Israel on their own and fell in battle. The Jewish Agency is resolute in our pledge to stand by Israel and the Jewish people as we heal and face whatever challenges may come next – Every one of us, together.

Am Yisrael Chai.