KEENE, NH – Congregation Ahavas Achim (CAA) in Keene is set to hold a vigil in support of Israel this week.

Israel declared war against Hamas Saturday after Hamas militants stormed into Israel, and the Associated Press reports at least 1,600 people have died as of Tuesday morning. The death toll was expected to grow as Israel pummeled the Gaza Strip with airstrikes and blockaded the densely populated Palestinian territory. Hamas also escalated on Monday, pledging to kill captured Israelis if attacks targeted civilians without warnings.

In a show of local support, CAA is hosting a “Service of Prayer and Solidarity for Israel” this Wednesday, October 11th, at 6 pm at the synagogue on Hastings Avenue in Keene.

“At this solemn gathering, we will support all in our community whose hearts are heavy with grief, fear, and anger, and we will express our solidarity with the people and state of Israel,” their website reads.

For those who can’t or would prefer not to attend in person, the service will be available on Zoom as well. Rabbi Dan is also hosting an online “Daily Moment of Prayer and Support” on Zoom each day at noon. Both links are available on their website.