One Thousand Days Later. Two Democracies. One Shared Responsibility |
This week, two anniversaries arrive just one day apart.
On July 3, Israel marks 1,000 days since October 7, 2023. One thousand days since Hamas carried out the deadliest terrorist attack in Israel’s modern history, murdering families in their homes, kidnapping civilians, and forcing an entire nation into a new reality.
The following day, America celebrates 250 years of independence– a milestone commemorating the ideals of liberty, self-government, and the generations who fought to preserve them.
At first glance, these anniversaries seem unrelated. One reflects on centuries of freedom; the other on 1,000 days spent defending it. Yet as an American-born Jew whose work has become deeply intertwined with Israel over these past 1,000 days, I find myself thinking about them together. They remind me that while freedom may be declared in a single moment, preserving it is never a single event. It is the work of generations.
Much has changed over the past 1,000 days. The international attention that once dominated headlines has shifted elsewhere. New conflicts have emerged, political debates have evolved, and many outside the region have understandably moved on. But for millions of Israelis, the crisis did not end when the cameras left. The security threats remain. Families continue to navigate trauma, uncertainty, and loss. Entire communities are still rebuilding their lives.
Over the past three years, I have spent time with soldiers serving on multiple fronts, first responders who continue to answer calls despite carrying........