Last night, leading members of Britain’s Jewish community gathered at the Roundhouse in London to raise vital funds for the work of World Jewish Relief. The charity, which last year worked in 21 countries, provides essential support to vulnerable people and those suffering the consequences of conflict, disaster and climate change.

On Holocaust Remembrance Day, we welcomed our Royal Patron, His Majesty King Charles III, to the Jewish Community Centre of Krakow (JCC Krakow) to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.   

One year into our new strategy, our mission remains front and centre of everything we do. We exist to provide life-saving and life-changing action to those experiencing crisis and conflict around the world.

Working in 21 countries, we have this year had a positive impact on more than 140,000 people. This simply wouldn’t have been possible without the steadfast determination of our colleagues, Trustees, and of course, our supporters. We remain truly grateful for your ongoing trust and commitment to our work.

For 15 months, the hostages and their families have continually been in our thoughts. For 15 months, they have suffered unimaginable trauma. The release of three hostages yesterday, including one British-Israeli, was an emotional first step, but we anxiously await the return of the remaining 30 people set to be released during phase one of the ceasefire. At the same time, we mourn deeply all those who have lost their lives, and we hope and pray for the safe return of the hostages that remain in Gaza. The last 471 days have caused immense suffering for Israelis and Palestinians, and we hope that this ceasefire will allow for peace and security in the region, the return of all remaining hostages, and essential humanitarian aid to continue at pace in Gaza.