Dear sisters and brothers from all over the world, Happy Purim, Chag Purim Sameach.
I'm speaking to you today from Jerusalem at a crucial moment in our history – a sobering, familiar moment of strength and resolve, even in the face of uncertainty.
The Iranian regime, that has been merciless in oppressing its own people, is now again targeting Israel, targeting American forces, targeting its neighbours, and targeting Jews around the world. This is the same empire of evil that empowered Hamas on October 7. This is the same evil that we read about in the Purim Megillah, Megillat Esther.
But as evil continues to rise up against us, in order to try to destroy us, we will meet this moment with strength, with caution, and with unity. Throughout the Jewish world, we praise the heroism of Queen Esther and proudly boo Haman. In Israel, we do so even from within bomb shelters, and we do so while fighting to secure a better future for all of our children in Israel, in the United States, in the rest of the world, even in Iran.
To all of you in Jewish communities around the world, I urge you all to remain cautious and vigilant. The Iranian regime seeks to harm Jews wherever they can. As you stand with us, we stand with you. Be cautious, be alert, and hold your head high.
Dear sisters and brothers, we feel your deep concern and long-distance support. We know that you, too, stand on the front lines in your own communities, defending truth, dignity, and Israel's good name.
Know that you are in our hearts and prayers. Know that you are not alone, and know that we will get through this together, not because there is no choice, on the contrary, precisely because we have a choice, and we – Am Yisrael – always choose life. Together, we choose to sanctify life and to pursue the peace which we pray for every single day.
The resolve of the Jewish people is a force of nature. It is fact, miracle and destiny. We have known challenges before, and each time we emerge stronger, and together, we will do so again.
"In those days, at this time." Am Yisrael Chai.
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