Newsletter for January 17, 2025

Shalom ZOA Members, Friends and Supporters of Israel,

We hope that this email finds you and your loved ones well.

This newsletter includes important news, vital advocacy resources and opportunities to learn and strengthen your knowledge base and advocacy acumen while helping to mitigate Jew-hatred. Please be sure to share all or part of this newsletter with your email contacts, on social media and in the community. Please make them aware of circumstances and situations around us, and what Greater Philadelphia ZOA and ZOA are doing in support of the Jewish community, Israel and Zionism. Please encourage others to financially support our work (information below) and please consider hosting a parlor meeting to introduce your friends to us and what we do. Thank you!

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When it comes to Israel, U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean is our region’s “The Squad” wannabe. Since Israel began defending itself following the Palestinian-Arab atrocities of Oct. 7, 2023: 1,200 Israelis slaughtered; 251 taken captive; thousands raped and wounded in other ways – all in attacks that were unprecedented savagery – Dean has sought to weaken Israel’s ability to defend itself from those bent on anti-Jewish genocide, while she has taken up the cause of those who voted for Hamas, support Hamas, agree with the Oct. 7 attacks and have aided and abetted the holding of hostages. Now Dean even wants to reward them with a “continuous” (likely she means “contiguous”) state.

Dean initiated or was a leader of three congressional letters that among other things called for an embargo of American weapons for Israel. Now that there is an announcement of a “ceasefire” and some release of Israeli hostages held by Palestinian-Arabs, Dean has doubled-down.

Many lawmakers including some in our area released statements in the aftermath of the announcement of the “deal” between Israel and Hamas. Some of the statements from local lawmakers are on-point with a clear understanding of who the victims and who the perpetrators are – among these are Congressman Fitzpatrick and Congressman Norcross. Others issued terrible, tasteless and decidedly anti-Israel statements. None are worse than Dean’s. In fact, she seems to indicate that the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks were not acts of war – referring instead to “… the war that began shortly after October 7th, … .”

Dean declares that “approximately 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza — including, horrifically, many children.” Yet she does not tell her constituents that these numbers are furnished solely by the anti-Jewish Hamas, and that among that alleged number of dead are thousands of murderers, plus non-combatants who Hamas and other terrorists deliberately placed in harm’s way as human shields.” These items in Dean’s statement negate the “boilerplate” nod to Israel rightfully defending itself.

More of Dean’s statement, and statements from other local lawmakers are below under the “Advocacy” heading. Also there is the link for Greater Philadelphia ZOA’s Guide to “Contacting Congress,” an important advocacy resource.

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A few spaces remain for the upcoming self-defense and first aid classes Greater Philadelphia ZOA will facilitate on Jan. 27 and 28. See registration links and other details below.

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Local talk-radio hosts this week (and last week) turned to Greater Philadelphia ZOA Executive Director Steve Feldman for expert analysis and insights on the reported “deal” between Israel and Hamas.

To listen to Feldman’s analysis, see the “Media Spotlight” section below.

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Save the date: Greater Philadelphia ZOA Executive Director Steve Feldman will host a National ZOA webinar focusing on “The New Congress: Implications for Israel and the Jewish People” along with ZOA colleagues and experts Dan Pollak, director of ZOA’s Department of Government Relations, and Pollak’s deputy director, Adam Turner. The webinar is now scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 22, at 1 p.m. A link to register to the event will be sent out on Monday.

Please Support Greater Philadelphia ZOA’s Vitally Important Work

No other organization is doing the valuable work that ZOA is doing to expose and combat Jew-hatred, educate the community, promote Zionism, and to boldly promote and defend Zionism and Israel!

We encourage education, advocacy and activism like no one else — so that together, ZOA and you can help Israel, the Jewish community, the Zionist movement and the mutually beneficial U.S.-Israel relationship.

Now more than ever: Please support our work as generously as you can.

To donate electronically, go to:
https://zoa.org/donate/philly/

and follow the multi-step process. If you do not have or want a Paypal account and are having difficulty making a donation by credit card or debit card, please call our Office at 610-660-9466.

To donate by check, send to:

ZOA

PO Box 56

Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004

We are grateful to those of you who have already donated. We appreciate each and every donation.

ADVOCACY

Greater Philadelphia ZOA encourages you to engage in advocacy, monitor anti-Jewish activities, and to be pro-active in getting out in front of dangers as much as possible – such as by sending in letters-to-the-editor and reaching out to media decision-makers; checking in on what is being discussed and taught in local schools, and through speaking with family and acquaintances to keep them informed with facts and to dispel the myths and lies.

Remember: The Israel Defense Forces is the most humane military in the world; Israel and the Jewish People were attacked – and Israel must do what is necessary to eliminate the threat and rescue the captives kidnapped by Palestinian-Arabs; the relationship between the United States and Israel has always been mutually beneficial.

Now more than ever – for Israel and for American and world Jewry – advocacy and activism are vitally important. There are many advocacy opportunities and needs. Please partake and encourage others to participate. While the needs are great in Israel, if you can: Please also support Greater Philadelphia ZOA’s fight in the information war.

Accurate information and its impact on public opinion are vitally important.

If you are the victim of Jew-hatred or are aware of anti-Jewish or anti-Israel activity, please report it to Greater Philadelphia ZOA. If we at Greater Philadelphia ZOA can be of help to you – or if you want to help us at this time – please reach out at 610-660-9466 or [email protected]

New this week: Contacting Congress

It is worthwhile for Israel advocates to be in frequent contact with members of Congress and their staffs to discuss legislation, to give feedback and input on issues of importance, and to thank members of Congress for their pro-Israel statements and votes. Likewise, it is important for constituents to let their lawmakers know that they object to anti-Israel positions and votes. When engaging in advocacy, always be civil, polite and concise. Accord aide and staff of lawmakers the same respect and deference you would give to lawmakers. ZOA is a non-partisan organization and we believe that support for Israel should be a non-partisan issue.

See our guide (including new senators and House members) at: https://philly.zoa.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/contacting-congress-updated-011425-a.pdf
Please post the link to our “Contacting Congress” guide on social media, and email it to friends and contacts in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

This week, House members and senators gave their pro-Israel constituents much to talk about – and to provide feedback about via statements about the “deal” between Israel and Hamas. We looked at their official websites and X (Twitter) pages to see what they had to say, or if they had anything to say. The results/statements are below, verbatim.

Local statements:

U.S. Rep Brian Fitzpatrick, R-PA:
“After 467 days—15 months of unimaginable suffering endured by innocent hostages at the hands of evil Hamas terrorists—a breakthrough has finally been reached. A hostage deal between Israel and Hamas brings hope that these individuals may soon be reunited with their families. This agreement is an important step forward, but it is not the end of the road. The fight against terror and those who perpetuate it continues.

“This moment, while filled with hope, does not erase the profound loss so many have endured. I recently met with my constituent, Debbi Gilad, who lost her family in the horrific October 7th attack: Ayala Hetzroni (74), Avia Hetzroni (70), and 12-year-old twins Liel and Yanai Hetzroni. Their story, like so many others, serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating cost of Hamas’s barbaric actions. We owe it to the victims and their families to remain resolute in our pursuit of justice.

“Our mission remains clear: Every hostage must come home. Every victim deserves justice. And every perpetrator of terror must face the full force of accountability.

“This is not a moment for complacency but for renewed determination. We must continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our friends in Israel, united against the forces of terror. Terror will not triumph because we will not waver. And together, we will see this fight through and ensure freedom, security, and peace prevail.”

U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-PA:
“I welcome the announcement of this agreement. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a barbaric attack, killing over 1,200 innocent people and seizing 251 hostages. The devastation that followed has claimed the lives of far too many innocent civilians, leaving countless families in heartbreak and grief.

“This agreement is a vital step toward ensuring the safe return of Israeli hostages. I am overjoyed for those families who will now be able to welcome home their loved ones.

“The ceasefire also provides a critical opportunity to ease the suffering of innocent civilians in Gaza and deliver much-needed humanitarian relief—something I have strongly supported since the start of this conflict.””

U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-PA:
““Today, I am relieved and cautiously optimistic to know that a ceasefire-hostage deal has been agreed upon — that the crucial first step toward a “day after” is in reach, and that hostages in Gaza — including living American hostages Keith Siegel, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Edan Alexander — are closer to coming home.

“For more than a year, extraordinary suffering has taken place in Israel and Palestine. On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists launched brutal attacks on Israel, killing more than 1,200 Israelis and taking 250 hostages, including seven American citizens. Israel, reeling from this horrific act of terrorism, availed itself of its right — and responsibility — to defend itself and its people.

“During the war that began shortly after October 7th, approximately 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza — including, horrifically, many children. In addition, Gaza has been catapulted into a state of humanitarian crisis — with insufficient access to food, water, fuel, medical supplies, and other necessities.

“I have seen the scars of this war up close — traveling to Israel twice since October 7, 2023. I met with Kibbutz community members, grieving parents, and other Israelis impacted by the horror of October 7th. I have met with the families of hostages in Israel and here at home dozens of times. Many of the hostage families urged me to call for a ceasefire and an end to the war, so that they can be reunited with their loved ones or, tragically, bury their dead with dignity.

“I am grateful to President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the entire Biden Administration — including National Security Advisor Sullivan, Secretary Blinken, and everyone who has put their lives on hold to work toward peace over the past 14 months. Throughout the various stages of this conflict, I have met with NSA Sullivan and Secretary Blinken, as well as many members of their staff. We owe a debt of gratitude to these hard-working public servants, who have and will continue to move us toward peace in the coming months and years.

“A ceasefire is extraordinary progress; and the work is not done. Israel has a right to exist — the Jewish people have a right to live, thrive, and be secure in their cultural, ethnic, and religious practices. We must protect our democratic ally.

“And so too, there must be self-determination for Palestinians — liberty, dignity, joy, and a rebuilding — in a state of their own. Long overdue is a continuous, democratic, and autonomous Palestinian State — in both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

“With the encouraging news of a ceasefire and potential end to the Israel-Hamas War — an end to the war, and security and sovereignty for two nations must be realized.

“As I believe: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.””

U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans, D-PA:
“Having called for such an agreement nearly a year ago, I’m pleased to see the announcement of a ceasefire agreement to bring the hostages home and deliver desperately needed aid to Palestinians. Thank you to the Biden administration for their behind-the-scenes hard work that made this deal possible. I’m hopeful this is a step forward towards lasting peace in the region.”

U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-PA:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-PA:
Tweeted White House statement, adding: “Grateful for word of this significant breakthrough. The gradual ceasefire and hostage releases are both most welcome news, with thanks to @POTUS, @SecBlinken, and our global partners in negotiating this agreement.”

U.S. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, R-PA:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Robert Bresnahan, R-PA:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Daniel Meuser, R-PA:
“The ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas is a testament to the strength of President-Elect
@realDonaldTrump’s decisive leadership. Just as Iran released American hostages the day President Reagan took office, Hamas was clearly compelled to act by President Trump. His firm warning that “all hell will break out” if hostages weren’t released by January 20 sent an unmistakable message, bringing Hamas to the negotiating table. This agreement demonstrates the power of peace through strength. The world is already seeing the positive change a Trump Administration will bring, even before he takes office.”

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry, R-PA:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Smucker, R-PA:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, D-NJ:
“Hamas terrorists have held American and Israeli hostages captive in Gaca since October 7, 2023. The hostages have had to endure unimaginable pain and suffering for over a year, and now, finally, they will be able to come home. The Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, orchestrated by President Biden, Secretary Blinken, and our international partners, is a long overdue framework that will release 33 hostages, set the stage for the remaining hostages to come home, and begin the reconstruction of Gaza. I hope that the devastation caused by Hamas terrorists will now come to an end and that we can finally form lasting peace and security for Israel and the entire Middle East.”

U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-NJ:
No statement

U.S. Rep. Herbert Conaway, D-NJ:
“It is welcome news to see that there is a ceasefire agreement between Israel & Hamas that will bring the hostages home.

“I hope that every phase of this agreement is implemented, allowing Israeli hostage families & innocent Palestinians to begin healing from this devastating war.”

U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride, D-DE:
“”The reports of a ceasefire agreement and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas could not be more welcome. The loss of lives, homes, and communities since October 7, 2023 in Israel and Gaza has been heartbreaking — and this is an important step toward securing safety for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

Meanwhile, among area senators:

Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-DE:
“After repeatedly calling for an end to the violence in Gaza, I’m pleased to learn of reports that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on a ceasefire. The deal is crucial to reducing the violence in the region, ensuring the release of hostages – including the remaining American hostages, and ending the destruction for Palestinians in Gaza.

“President Biden, Secretary Blinken, and all those involved in negotiations deserve immense credit for brokering this ceasefire deal and restoring faith in diplomacy. As President Biden leaves office, this ceasefire agreement is a remarkable achievement that will hopefully create a pathway to peace for the entire region, address Gaza’s desperate humanitarian crisis, and promote security for all Israelis.”

Sen. Corey Booker, D-NJ:
No statement

Sen. Christopher Coons, D-DE:
““I am overjoyed by reports that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for a cease-fire, the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas, and the return of Palestinian civilians to their homes across Gaza.

“This is the direct result of the tireless efforts by President Biden, Secretary of State Blinken, and the Biden national security team to bring a pause to hostilities in Gaza, secure the release of innocent civilians kidnapped by Hamas during the horrific October 7 terrorist attack, and increase the flow of desperately needed humanitarian assistance to civilians across Gaza. This cease-fire agreement is an important step toward restoring stability to the region, securing Israel’s safety, and ending Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. I commend President Biden for his resilience, determination, and faith in diplomacy to achieve peace.””

Sen. John Fetterman, D-PA:
No statement

Sen. Andy Kim, D-NJ:
“The announcement of this ceasefire comes as a relief for the families of hostages who have been without their loved ones for 466 days, but far too late for those hostages who have been killed and the thousands of Palestinian civilians who have died since. Those of us in New Jersey are pressing for Eden Alexander to be one of those released, and I have made that clear to the White House.

“The terms of the ceasefire are only as good as the willingness of both sides to adhere to its conditions, and I strongly encourage the Israeli government and Hamas to move forward in good faith. Every day forward must be dedicated to ensuring that the tragedy of October 7th and the events that have taken place since never happens again. The Palestinian people need immediate humanitarian assistance and support for rebuilding, and deserve a pathway to statehood, respect, and stability. That cannot happen with Hamas in charge. Hamas is a terrorist organization, an existential threat to the state of Israel, and should be removed from power. The Israeli people deserve that same security and stability and ability to defend itself from external threats.

“This must be the moment where we break the cycle of violence in the Middle East. Israeli and Palestinian families deserve a world where their children can grow up free from fear and with greater opportunity and prosperity delivered. I will work with the incoming administration to set conditions to achieve the goal of this being the last ceasefire that is necessitated in this conflict.”

Sen. Dave McCormick, D-PA:
No statement

Please see more advocacy resources and suggestions below.

Greater Philadelphia ZOA Facilitating Self-Defense, First Aid Classes:

Please consider attending one or both classes led by a certified instructor. Please see details below:

Class 1: Developing a personal and home protection plan (not about firearms) and “Stop the Bleed” first aid Monday, Jan. 27, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in Northeast Philadelphia.

Class 2: Self-defense firearm basics, legal use of force, violent encounters and their aftermath, gear and gadgets – what you need and where to get it. Tuesday, Jan. 28, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., in Northeast Philadelphia.

Specific locations will be given after registration. Neither class will involve the use of an actual firearm.

The cost per class for each of these classes is $60 per person. YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER and PAY IN ADVANCE. Use the links below.

Below is the link to register for the Home defense and Stop the Bleed class:

https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/firearms-training/instructors/pennsylvania-instructors/judea-security-training-llc-320808/class-philadelphia-pa-home-defense-fundamentals-stop-the-bleed-ne-03af0/

Below is the link to register for the concealed carry and firearm basics class:

https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/firearms-training/instructors/pennsylvania-instructors/judea-security-training-llc-320808/class-philadelphia-pa-concealed-carry-and-firearm-basics-ne-62c85/

For more information, please call the Greater Philadelphia ZOA Office at 610-660-9466. Phone calls only! After registering and paying for each class, please call this number to be provided with the location of the class.

As news was breaking about an imminent deal that would have Hamas free some of the Israeli hostages that the Palestinian-Arabs have been holding since Oct. 7, 2023, the dean of Philadelphia talk radio, Dom Giordano, turned to Steve Feldman to discuss the news.

“The Dom Giordano Show” from January 15, 2025 (segment begins at the 21-minute mark):

https://www.audacy.com/podcast/the-dom-giordano-program-6a651/episodes/red-red-dye-stay-away-from-me-031ca?fbclid=IwY2xjawH2V_5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfWvgjuD-bRARrHrzDbt5ZAAdxt1JzX5wUNDqArEtd4oz_bb1wFJZGW_6A_aem_DdChYjwaoZiQreFjH26rAg

Also This past Wednesday, Feldman was a guest on the “Don’t Back Down” show, featuring Stan Casacio, and he had been a guest on the same show on Jan. 8.

“Don’t Back Down” from January 8, 2025 (segment begins just after the 1:04:30 mark (one hour, four minutes, 30 seconds into the show) : https://wwdbam.com/episodes/dont-back-down-with-stan-casacio-01-08-25/

“Don’t Back Down” from January 15, 2025 (segment begins exactly at the one hour, five minute mark).