What should have been a day of joyful celebration – as Jews in the UK, Israel and around the world mark Simchat Torah – has instead become a day of mourning, horror, fear and sadness.

Liberal Judaism and The Movement for Reform Judaism strongly condemn these barbaric acts of terror by Hamas. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Israel. We pray for the immediate return of those taken hostage and the safety of those still under attack, and we share in the pain of those who have been injured and bereaved.

As Jews have for thousands of years, we yearn for a time of peace.

We know that many people will be looking for ways to help and to find out more on what is happening. Please click here for information, which will be regularly updated over the coming days.