News Summary

DAYTON — More than 100 people attended an Israel Solidarity Rally on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Temple Israel, a meeting that combined prayers for peace with expressions of support for waging war against those who launch rockets against Israeli civilians.

"It's our opportunity to show Israel that we stand by them," said Angela Frydman of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton. "This is not the first time we have rallied in support of Israel, and it's not the first time Israel has had to defend itself against senseless attacks."

The rally drew participation from Dayton's Jewish synagogues, area Hillel organizations, Jewish War Veterans and related community groups.

Montgomery County Commissioner Dan Foley offered words of solidarity on behalf of elected officials, some of whom visited Israel on an economic development mission in 2008.

"All of us mourn the loss of innocent lives on both sides of the conflict," Foley said. "Israel has been forced to make the short-term decision to protect its citizens. We hope the conflict will end shortly and justly."

The audience received an unclassified briefing on the conflict from an Israeli military liaison to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

"It's almost impossible to destroy Hamas in a few days," the liaison said, but Israel's intent is to destroy Hamas' infrastructure, forces and capabilities, reducing Hamas' power in the region. He said other militant groups also are responsible for missiles launched against Israel.

To date, Israel has destroyed hundreds of targets and succeeded in surprising Hamas with the ferocity of its attack, the liaison said. Ultimately, Israel would like to cut off the ability of Hamas to launch missiles.

Gary Youra, president-elect of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, said, "we're staunch in our resolve in support of Israel. It cannot be argued that Israel is occupying Gaza. Hamas has turned Gaza into a terrorist base."

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7407 or sbennish@DaytonDailyNews.com.