Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem – We Are Still Here

In Jerusalem, and all of Israel this has been one horrible week and Israel’s National Security Council-Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a warning on Thursday – against the background of Operation Swords of Iron.

The Hamas leadership has called on all of its supporters around the world to hold a ‘Day of Rage’ on Friday, the 13th, to attack Israelis and Jews. When murderous Hamas makes statements in Arabic, listen carefully.

When one does not know what to do, focus on what you can do. It was time to bake brownies to keep the kids busy with no school. They were as good as they look, sorry the peanut butter ones are long gone.

Scenes of taking the little ones out for a walk, while one parent is at work or called up, or older siblings need to attend classes online, or just get out for some air and breathe are common on the Jerusalem streets.

Please remember, that volunteers are trying their best to fill in for thousands called up for duty or unable to get to work because of young children at home.

President Isaac Herzog invited international journalists to Beit Hanasi, the President’s Residence for a press conference on Thursday morning. It was also broadcast live.

The growing numbers he shared are staggering, and sadly are still going up daily. Remember this is in less than a week, even though it feels like forever and Israel is the size of New Jersey.

Not only Jewish Israelis were murdered or missing, and held captive by Hamas. A rocket from Gaza hit a mosque in the Jerusalem area, but that did not get much media attention.

The international media is worried about the Hamas housing in Gaza being destroyed. I will not share the vile videos gleaned from social media of the depraved terrorists posting their despicable slaughter of innocent humans, including babies. The clip of President Herzog losing his temper when repeatedly asked about Gaza has been posted on social media.

Simple. Hamas is evil. Israel must respond.

Rather this photo essay is to share what is happening on the Jerusalem streets after one week of war.

The flowers and fruits were ready for shoppers to prepare for Shabbat.

The electrical store had an extensive display of batteries to prepare for emergencies.

The toy store was open. People are looking for new ways to entertain children.

The toilet paper, paper towels, and diapers were fully stocked and on display.

These stores that were closed for the Sukkot holiday were being restocked.

On the street, people were taking advantage of the good weather and quiet for food and conversation.

Israeli flags are being displayed on buildings and popping up on cars.

I missed Zot Habracha last week being read on Simhat Torah. Our synagogue was closed before I arrived.

This week we start the cycle again with Beresheet, In the Beginning.

There is good and evil.

The world should now know the difference, we have seen – that Hamas is ISIS is Jihad is evil.

Best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom.

From the Jerusalem streets to around the world – We are still here!