Birmingham Community Strengthens Support for Israel

Birmingham, AL, September 29, 2025

News Summary

Following the October 7 attack by Hamas, the Birmingham community has intensified discussions around offering support to Israel. Emphasizing unity and historical ties, residents actively engage in outreach and advocacy. Richard Friedman, a prominent voice, highlights the resilience of Israelis while also addressing the issues of rising antisemitism and the need for solidarity during these turbulent times.

Birmingham Community Discusses Strengthened Support for Israel Following October War

In Birmingham, community discussions have intensified around supporting Israel in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, as residents reflect on related connections and historical ties. Prominent voices in the community, including guest columnist Richard Friedman, emphasize the importance of unity and support during these challenging times.

Friedman recounted a recent interaction with a Birmingham Christian woman in her 20s, who returned from Jerusalem after sheltering during the June war with Iran. She led an initiative connecting young Christians with Israel and Jews and has actively reached out to comfort Birmingham’s Jewish community since the attacks. This personal connection underscores a broader commitment among the Birmingham and Alabama communities to stand with Israel.

Amid the turmoil, Friedman and his wife are planning a visit to Israel from September 3-17, 2023, with a keen awareness that the country may not be the same as before the hostilities. Following a recent trip, he observed how Israel has grown stronger despite significant challenges, including devastating losses, ongoing hostage situations, and the civilian deaths of Palestinians.

The columnist pointed out various military and strategic successes Israel has achieved in recent years, particularly with the support of American resources. These include defeating Iran, dismantling Hezbollah’s influence, attacking Houthi groups, and successfully securing the release of hostages. These developments reflect a significant improvement in Israel’s defense and strategic position in the region.

Despite the hardships, Israel is engaged in a robust public relations campaign and has made notable medical advancements, influencing the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. However, following the October 7 massacre, a distressing rise in antisemitism has been reported globally, prompting Jewish communities across America to rally against this increase.

During his visit, Friedman noted the resilience and strength exhibited by Israelis, encapsulated in the phrase “Am Yisrael Chai” (The People of Israel Live). The Birmingham community, aligned with its values and historical connections to Israel, demonstrates steadfast support. For instance, Alabama was the first state to call for the restoration of Jewish sovereignty as early as 1943.

While Friedman traveled, a delegation of 250 state legislators was planned to visit Israel, showcasing the state’s continued commitment to fostering relations. He highlighted the vital role of Christian support for Israel in light of recent events, emphasizing the need for solidarity in advocating for peace and security.

Friedman recalled a poignant moment during his trip when a friend faced a siren warning for incoming rockets while visiting Yad Vashem. This experience serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats Israel faces. As the new Jewish year approaches with Rosh Hashanah, Friedman expressed gratitude for the support from Christian friends during this turbulent period.

In summary, Birmingham’s community discussions reflect a profound dedication to strengthening support for Israel in response to current events. The collective efforts of residents, bolstered by historical ties, underscore a commitment to solidarity and resilience in facing adversity.

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Additional Resources

• Comeback Town: Birmingham Fuels Israel’s Strength
• Google Search: Birmingham community support for Israel
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Israel
• Yellowhammer News: Pro-Israel Billboard in Birmingham
• Google News: Recent events in Israel

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.