Below is a message from New Israel Fund CEO Daniel Sokatch:

Friend --

We all are watching the developments in Israel and in Gaza with tremendous concern and worry.

I do not know how extensive this conflict will be, but I do know that many members of the New Israel Fund family will work to assist the most vulnerable Israeli citizens, both Jewish and Arab, who are living within range of the rocket fire.

Our senior program staff met this morning in Jerusalem to make sure that NIF can act nimbly in the days and weeks ahead. We have more than 30 years of grassroots experience on behalf of Israel's most vulnerable and we are committed to bringing our expertise to bear to alleviate the consequences of this violence.

We have begun consultations with the organizations we support to assess the needs of the Israeli communities living in the line of fire. We stand ready to provide assistance as needed.

My heart aches at the loss of life. Israeli and Palestinian civilians have died. My thoughts and prayers are with their families, and all who are living in fear.

I know that you stand with me in solidarity with our dedicated staff in Israel. They are a microcosm of modern Israel – Jewish and Palestinian Israelis, Bedouins, and new immigrants -- who work together every day to make a better Israel.

Today, their work is invaluable and we pray for their safety.

Daniel Sokatch
CEO, NIF