We realize that at this moment, the tragedies we face must be converted into an opportunity to redefine our future.
One year after the horrific events of Oct. 7, Israel stands at a crossroads. From the depths of tragedy and war, our nation has been tested like never before. Rockets, terror and massacres, shock and devastation followed by funerals and heartbreak, prayers and more prayers — our nation has experienced a seismic shift.
But in the face of unimaginable pain, our true strength has emerged. We recognize that this is a fight for our survival. We also realize that at this moment, the tragedies we face must be converted into an opportunity to redefine our future. The Jewish people must unite, overcome the cracks in our foundation and transform this crisis into a moment of triumph — where we don’t merely survive but build a stronger, more resilient society for generations to come.
Over the past year, we have witnessed the incredible spirit of the Jewish people coming together as a united and powerful force — mobilizing, contributing, supporting and standing resilient in the face of an unthinkable reality. The hardships we have endured have shown that despite our differences, when we are under threat, we know how to stand as one — like an unbreakable wall, defending our cherished homeland.
A year has passed, and cracks are beginning to appear beneath the surface. Sometimes subtle and unseen, they creep down to the roots, threatening to weaken our foundation and destabilize us. The war forced upon us a year ago is not just a battle against an enemy intent on our physical destruction, it is a fight for our core values and our right to live securely on this land.
As we conclude the sacred days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we see the value of life placed front and center as it says, זָכְרֵנוּ לְחַיִּים מֶלֶךְ חָפֵץ בַּחַיִּים “Remember us for life, O King who desires life.” As a people who cherish life, live for life and toast to life, it is our moral and historical duty to transform this crisis into an opportunity for growth and renewal.
From the depths of mourning and loss, and from the deep roots that bind us to this land, we will stand strong, rebuild and flourish. Amid the confusion and the economic and social challenges, we will keep building our shared future, step by step, brick by brick. After this difficult year, we will continue to strive to bring back the hostages by any means necessary, dismantle the terror networks around us and strike a decisive blow to our enemies, projecting unwavering strength and confidence. As long as we remain united and resolute in defending our future, no force on earth can break us. In this battle for survival, there is no room for compromise. We are all in this together, committed to a single, vital goal: securing the future of the Jewish people and the state of Israel.
A year has passed since the unspeakable horrors of Oct. 7. Yet we have demonstrated that our enemy cannot and will not defeat us. With unwavering clarity, we say loudly and unequivocally: We are here to stay. For the entire Jewish people, whether they live here, will live here or even if they never will live in this land, Israel is the home of all of us. There is no alternative. Our unity is not optional; it is essential. We will turn this crisis into a historic turning point, where the Jewish people not only survive but triumph, emerging stronger and more resilient as a society.
This is our moment of decision, and we must choose victory. We will prevail — because there is no other choice.
Yaakov Hagoel is the chairman of the executive of the World Zionist Organization. He was formerly acting chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel.
