‍

As the Jewish world prepares for the normally festive holiday of Purim this evening – which commemorates the saving of our people from annihilation in ancient Persia – we do so at an anxious moment as Israelis are, yet again, in the line of fire from Iranian ballistic missiles. To be sure, as the war rages between the United States and Israel and Iran, the Middle East stands at a volatile inflection point which is adversely affecting people throughout the region, sometimes with great tragedy.

Over the past three days, we have experienced a range of emotions. We recognize the necessity of confronting Iran’s tyrannical regime, which has long publicly championed the destruction of Israel and brutally oppressed its own people. We know its demise could contribute considerably to a more stable and peaceful future for the entire region. At the same time, we mourn the innocent lives lost in the current hostilities, including 11 Israelis, and extend our deepest condolences to their families.

Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) stands firmly with the Iranian people and their aspiration for a future grounded in human rights, freedom and prosperity. We commend the Canadian government for standing alongside its allies, the US and Israel, in confronting a regime that for decades has oppressed its own citizens, fueled regional instability and enabled terrorism through its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis.

The path forward will not be easy. But history reminds us that oppressive regimes do not endure forever. We remain hopeful that the people of Iran will one day be able to finally live free from fear, that Israelis won’t have to endure the constant threat of terror and that the region will have lasting peace and stability.

Now is the time for moral clarity and meaningful solidarity. We encourage you to stand publicly and proudly with the Iranian people – and with Iranian Canadians here at home who are carrying the emotional weight of this moment. Share messages of support. Speak out for freedom and human rights. Let them know that in this time of hope and uncertainty, they do not stand alone.

We are grateful for the courage and fortitude of Israeli and US forces engaged in this important battle and pray for their safety and well-being as we do for all civilians in the region stoically facing the danger of the ruthless and repressive Iranian regime.

‍