Dear friend and supporter, The war in Israel has led to a severly underreported crisis: essentially, over half a million Israelis facing displacement in their own country. While official figures report significant numbers, the reality on the ground suggests a much wider impact that goes beyond the statistics. The displacement encompasses not only those whose homes have been destroyed near the Gaza envelope but also extends to the tens of thousands from over 100 communities who have been relocated for their safety. Families of drafted soldiers have uprooted their lives, seeking refuge with relatives, adding to the growing number of internal refugees. In towns like Sderot and border communities, thousands find temporary solace in state-subsidized accommodations, while Eilat has become a shelter for some 65,000 evacuees. The ripple effect of this displacement is profound. The Ministry of Labor's estimate that 764,000 Israelis have been affected in their employment starkly reflects the economic shock. With around 40% of businesses operating at a fraction of their capacity, the war economy bites hard, leaving even more Israelis in a precarious position. |