The annual Evening of Solidarity hosted by Israel Bonds and B'nai Jeshurun Congregation in Cleveland, Ohio, was a testament to the unwavering support for the Jewish state. The event, which drew a record crowd, honored local philanthropists Ronna and Robert Zelwin and featured insights from guest speaker Ambassador Ido Aharoni, former consul general of Israel in New York.

Strengthening Israel's Economy Through Bonds

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

The event's theme of resilience was palpable as Thomas Lockshin, executive director of Israel Bonds for Ohio and Kentucky, shared the remarkable news that Israel Bonds has achieved record numbers of new investors and bond sales globally. This, he said, "means that Israel's going to survive this and thrive," despite the challenges the country has faced, including the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023.Lockshin emphasized the growing importance of Israel Bonds as a meaningful way to support Israel and combat the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement, a pro-Palestinian initiative promoting economic sanctions against the Jewish state. "An investment in Israel makes a difference," he asserted, underscoring the impact that individual contributions can have in strengthening Israel's economy and standing firm against those who seek to undermine it.

Honoring Community Leaders

The evening's honorees, Ronna and Robert Zelwin, were recognized for their dedication to the community and their unwavering support for Israel. As second-generation Holocaust survivors, the Zelwins spoke passionately about the need to stand up and support Israel, with Robert Zelwin declaring, "No longer will there be a killing of Jews in Israel without consequences." The couple urged attendees to educate their children and grandchildren on the importance of Israel to their faith, emphasizing that "Never again is now."Rabbi Hal Rudin-Luria of Congregation B'nai Jeshurun praised the Zelwins as "pillars of the community" and "leaders who lead," presenting them with an award from Israel Bonds and a proclamation from the city of Solon.

Insights from a Diplomatic Perspective

Guest speaker Ambassador Ido Aharoni shared his insights on the current state of affairs in Israel and its global impact. He highlighted the historical significance of Israel Bonds, formally known as the Development Corporation for Israel, which was launched in 1951 to create emotional bonds with the Jewish diaspora and demonstrate belief in the state's potential and future.Aharoni emphasized that despite the "13 months of intense fighting," Israel remains "very much strained" and in need of continued support from the global community. He underscored the unity of the Jewish people in their shared destiny, stating that they "prevail despite the difficulties."

A Longstanding Tradition of Support

The event at Congregation B'nai Jeshurun held special significance, as it marked the 54th consecutive Israel Bonds event hosted by the synagogue, the only one west of New York to do so annually since 1970. Event co-chairs Daniel Dobres, Diane Frankel, and Susan Nash, along with honorary co-chairs Brooke and Adam Zelwin, Courtney and Jeremy Zelwin, and Michael and Jaryd Frankel Zelwin, worked tirelessly to make the evening a success.The event's success is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Cleveland Jewish community to support Israel and its economic development through the purchase of Israel Bonds. As the global campaign continues in full force, the funds raised will undoubtedly play a crucial role in sustaining Israel's resilience and prosperity in the face of ongoing challenges.