More than a thousand rabbis and Jewish leaders have signed a letter urging Israel to halt the use of starvation as a weapon in the Gaza war. Rabbi Sarah Reines of Temple Emanu-El in Manhattan, a lifelong supporter of Israel, explains her reasons for joining the call in a recent podcast interview. The discussion highlights her personal connection to Israel amid growing criticism of the conflict.
In a re-aired episode of Slate's What Next podcast from August 2025, Rabbi Sarah Reines shares her perspective on the ongoing war in Gaza. As a rabbi at Temple Emanu-El in Manhattan, Reines has maintained a deep connection to Israel throughout her life. However, she has become vocal in her criticism of the military actions, particularly the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
The episode focuses on a letter signed by over 1,000 rabbis and Jewish leaders. The document calls on Israel to end "the use and threat of starvation as a weapon of war." Reines, one of the signatories, describes her motivations during the interview. She emphasizes her enduring love for Israel while advocating for peace and an immediate cessation of tactics that exacerbate suffering in Gaza.
This plea comes amid broader discussions within Jewish communities about the conflict's toll. The podcast, hosted by Slate, provides a platform for Reines to articulate a Jewish ethical stance on the issue. As the war continues into late 2025, such voices underscore internal debates over Israel's policies in Palestine.
The episode aired originally in August and was revisited in December 2025 as part of a year-in-review series. It highlights how personal ties to Israel can coexist with calls for accountability and humanitarian relief.
