We were heartbroken to learn of the reported kidnapping of Israeli soldier, 2nd Lieutenant Hadar Goldin, 23, from Kfar Saba, who holds dual Israeli-British citizenship. His alleged kidnapping took place a mere 90 minutes after a 72 hour ceasefire was to take effect. Two additional Israeli soldiers, Major Benaya Sarel, 26, from Kiryat Arba and First Sergeant Liel Gidoni, 20, from Jerusalem were killed in the fighting that led to the alleged kidnapping. May their memories be a blessing.

We support Israeli efforts to do everything in their power to secure Lieutenant Goldin's safe and speedy return, and hope that diplomatic steps will continue to be taken to ensure a lasting ceasefire and peace. We were deeply distressed by Hamas's violation of the joint U.S.-U.N. brokered ceasefire, leading to further violence and loss of life.

We commend U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and other international leaders for their swift and unequivocal condemnation of the reported kidnapping and their calls for Goldin's speedy return. We echo Kerry's demand that Hamas move to "immediately and unconditionally release" Goldin, as well as his call on "those with influence over Hamas to reinforce his message."

The Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund's Israel office is in Kfar Saba, Goldin's hometown, and Barak Loozon, the Federation's director in Israel has already reached out directly to the Goldin family to offer our Jewish community's support. Our thoughts and prayers are with Goldin's family and fianc� during this trying time.