Iranian Jewish community collects aid for Gaza, denounces Israeli actions in Palestine

In Isfahan, Iran, members of the local Jewish community have launched a campaign to gather donations for residents of Gaza, describing the effort as an expression of “solidarity with the Palestinians.”

The initiative saw community members come together at the David Synagogue, contributing dry goods and other essential supplies.

Tzion Mahagerpata, a leading figure in the Isfahan Jewish community, told Iranian media: “The items collected include dry food and other essential goods, but the spiritual dimension of this action is more important to us, as it symbolizes the solidarity of the Jewish community in Iran with the oppressed people of Palestine.”

The head of the Jewish Association of Isfahan stressed that “Jews around the world oppose Zionist agendas and see Zionists as separate from the Jewish religion. These groups are connected to violence and oppression, and such oppression is unjustified in any of the divine religions.” He added, “The whole world must mobilize to end this oppression. We will do our best, but it is a human duty that all nations and governments strive to ensure.”

In an official statement, the community and the Jewish Association of Isfahan condemned what they called “the crimes of Israel in Gaza.” The statement read: “The Jewish Association of Isfahan strongly condemns the inhumane and barbaric acts of the Zionist regime in Gaza and supports the oppressed and the needy in Gaza with all its resources.”

Mahagerpata noted that delivering aid poses challenges due to the ongoing conflict and distance, making non-perishable items the preferred choice. He expressed hope that the Islamic Republic and the Iranian people could “take a small step in support of the oppressed in Gaza.”