Statement from Association of University Heads, Israel (VERA)
We are shocked and deeply pained by the cold-blooded murder of the hostages, including students from various institutions, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to their families.
We will forever remember the heavy price paid with their lives by students, aspiring scholars, and the future generation of Israel. We will continue to support and strengthen the students who are serving in the army, especially those who have been wounded physically and mentally during their service.
We call upon the Government of Israel to prioritize the release of the hostages as the nation’s utmost mission at this time. The rescue of captives is a core value and commandment fundamental to Judaism and to all human societies. If we have the opportunity to save even one life, it is as if we have saved an entire world.
We are facing a cruel and bloodthirsty enemy, but the commandment to free the hostages, even at difficult short-term costs, does not contradict the necessity of eradicating Hamas as a terrorist entity in the long term.
