Dear Friend, 

Today’s announcement from the White House marks a significant moment: an agreement brokered through President Trump’s 20-point peace plan, under which Hamas has committed to disarm. Israel’s sustained efforts to eliminate Hamas’s leadership, combined with diplomatic pressure from the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, ultimately brought Hamas to this agreement.

This declaration is a positive step forward, but actions will ultimately determine whether it becomes a reality or remains an unfulfilled promise. Israel and Hamas are currently at an impasse over the implementation process, disagreeing on whether Hamas will disarm first or Israel will withdraw first. For the security of its people, Israel must respond to realities, not declarations. Only after concrete, verifiable steps toward disarmament have been taken should Israel begin the process of withdrawing from Gaza.

It has been a very long war, the longest in Israel’s history. The number of soldiers and families we must support, along with the challenges we must overcome to sustain their spirit and well-being, is greater than ever.

Seventy percent of the soldiers fighting in this war are reservists. In addition to the unprecedented number of soldiers FIDF supports today, new challenges have emerged after three years of immense demands on this population. Reservists are more likely to have spouses at home juggling children, work, anxiety, and sleepless nights. The intense pressure and constant burden carried by these families are taking a tremendous toll on Israeli society, but it’s one that FIDF is working to address.

In addition, the Ministry of Defense estimates that Israel will have 100,000 wounded soldiers requiring care by the end of 2026, including 29,000 soldiers living with psychological wounds. In the initial period following trauma or injury, these heroes receive critical care and attention. Years later, however, they risk being forgotten. FIDF continues to open mental health clinics, bringing the total number of facilities to nearly 15. Read the article below for details about the latest clinic opening in Jerusalem. We are also partnering with the Jewish Agency to provide simple, tailor-made technological solutions that address wounded soldiers’ unique needs, such as light-based doorbells for soldiers with hearing impairments and tools that help those with limited hand mobility turn keys.

FIDF also continues to support bereaved families through retreats and our After the Shiva program, which pairs U.S. donors with bereaved families to provide emotional and financial support. As we prepare for the holidays, we are also preparing to expand our assistance during this especially difficult period for families who have suffered unimaginable loss.

FIDF’s work is not a sprint or a “limited operation.” It is a lifelong journey, and we are committed to standing beside our soldiers, reservists, wounded heroes, and bereaved families for as long as it takes. Whether or not today’s declaration holds and regardless of the ultimate outcome, we will continue to march beside them for the rest of their lives.

Am Yisrael Chai. Forever.  

With heartfelt appreciation,