U.S. Jewish Leaders Describe Fear and Resolve Before High Holy Days

Jewish leaders in the United States described growing fear and resolve as Rosh Hashanah approaches, citing threats from Iranian proxies and domestic white supremacists. Rabbi David Ingber said congregants view Israel as their ancestral homeland even as some struggle with anti-Zionist claims, while Rabbi Rick Jacobs said more than 800 Reform synagogues were confronting the season with determination. Secure Community Network chief Michael Masters said hope alone is not a security strategy as institutions expand active-threat training. Major Jewish groups are asking Congress for $1 billion in nonprofit security funding after only 20% of more than 8,000 applicants received grants last year.