As the CEO of JNF UK, the oldest Israel-supporting charity in the UK, reflecting on the year 2023 evokes a mix of emotions.

The news of JNF UK employee Sagui Dekel-Chen being reported missing on the day of the Hamas attacks was undoubtedly the most poignant moment for me and our organisation and affected everyone deeply. Nevertheless, it has been heartwarming to witness the resilience of the people affected by the crisis in Israel, despite such immense suffering. It has filled me with tremendous pride to watch every section of Israeli society together with British Jewry coming together as one people, like one person with one heart, offering unwavering support in our fight for our existence. This is a testament to the strength of our community and the values that our charity stands for.

JNF employee Sagui Dekel-Chen

My hope for 2024 is that we can enter a new year where people in Israel can live in peace and its communities don’t just survive but thrive. At JNF UK, we will stay committed to our mission of rebuilding Israel’s peripheries and shaping a brighter future for the people of Israel. For decades we have worked in the Negev, we will continue to provide support and resources to communities hit hardest by the attack and look to strengthen our partnerships with other organisations within Israel, to amplify the impact of your charity's work. For over 120 years, our focus has changed to meet the needs of the people of Israel, it will again and we will be there to rebuild the destroyed communities.

Elan Gorji is the CEO of JNF UK