We are faced with the difficult reality that the search for three Israeli boys kidnapped by terrorists (both Israel and Secretary Kerry are saying that this is connected to Hamas) is now in its fourth day. Concurrently, news of escalating cross border rocket attacks from Gaza and Israel’s response in defense of her citizens is heightening anxieties and the possibility for escalation.

Much has been and will be said about the larger implications of these events: how Israeli, Palestinian, and world leaders are responding; what the implications of these events are for the end of violence and the resolution of the conflict.

Shmuel Rosner writes that Israelis are praying and bickering, and that’s OK. Benji Lovitt describes the joy and pain of loving Israel at times like these.

For now, first and foremost, our prayers are with the three families in the hopes of the quick and safe return of their children.

Yaakov Naftali (Frenkel) ben Rachel Devorah (16 years old)

Gilad Michael (Shaar) ben Bat Galim (16 years old)

Eyal (Yifrach) ben Iris Teshurah (19 years old)

As Sarah Tuttle-Singer notes, the families have been reported to be heartened by the outpouring of support and prayers from around the world on social media. We encourage you to share your hopes and prayers with your friends and networks. Many people have been using the Twitter and Facebook hashtags #EyalGiladNaftali and #BringBackOurBoys for updates.

I encourage you to continue to follow JCRC’s social media channels, CJP’s Israel Advocacy, and the Israeli media for updates.

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