During an online briefing held on Monday, June 30, 2025, Jewish National Fund-USA's President, Deb Lust Zaluda, detailed the organization's swift, strategic support for the people of Israel in the wake of the destruction caused by 12 days of Iranian ballistic missile fire.
Zaluda opened the call by reflecting on the ongoing trauma experienced by the people of Israel since October 7, 2023, compounded now by Iran's 12 days of attacks on communities throughout Israel. She noted that amid the fear and chaos, "We were there, just as we have been for 124 years.”
Updates followed from Major General Itzik Oz of the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority, who detailed the destruction in Be’er Sheva and the life-saving efforts of first responders. Many of the fire trucks that raced into danger were donated by Jewish National Fund-USA supporters.
The briefing then featured Susan Sacks, President of Alexander Muss High School in Israel, who described the extraordinary evacuation of students who were participating in the organization's study abroad programming. Sacks noted that, "When flights were grounded, Jewish National Fund-USA secured a chartered cruise ship to safely bring our students home—an astonishing feat powered by dedication and an incredible team of professionals led by Head of School, Stephen Kutno.
The briefing also highlighted Jewish National Fund-USA's $16 million emergency fundraising goal to repair damage, aid evacuees, and continue attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel’s North and South. Nearly 200 families are currently being housed at the Muss campus in Be’er Sheva following the destruction of buildings in the city of Be'er Sheva.
Zaluda urged continued giving, volunteer mission participation, and recruitment for Muss’s upcoming summer session.
Support packages for IDF soldiers and displaced families are also available. Every donor note is translated and hand-delivered in Hebrew.
Closing out the briefing was a message from Ruvik Danilovich, the Mayor of Be’er Sheva, who expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Jewish National Fund-USA and its supporters throughout the U.S.
To support the land and people of Israel during the current crisis and beyond, visit jnf.org/israelstrong or call 800.JNF.0099.
