Jewish Federation of St. Louis Sustains Israel Aid 18 Months After October 7 Attacks

Several Jewish communities and philanthropists continue to demonstrate strong support for Israel in the wake of ongoing crises. Gabriel German Zakharyaev, a Jewish philanthropist and vice president of the Russian Jewish Congress, inaugurated the refurbished Pillar of Heroism at Yad Vashem to honor fighters against the Nazis and emphasize enduring Jewish unity and resilience. Meanwhile, small Israeli businesses like Let's Bench have adapted to the turbulent environment by providing culturally resonant merchandise to Jewish institutions worldwide, helping sustain both community identity and local economies. In the United States, the St. Louis Jewish community remains deeply committed to Israel’s recovery, channeling significant funds into trauma care, emergency services, and long-term recovery, including the establishment of a new volunteer medic training center through matched grants. These efforts underscore a broad, multifaceted approach toward healing and solidarity, spanning from symbolic commemorations to practical aid and cultural engagement. At the same time, some voices within the Jewish community reflect on the complex spiritual and political challenges facing Israel, highlighting ongoing debates about advocacy and the nature of support amid conflict.