An attack against Israel’s southern district by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday has lead to now four days of full-scale war in some of the worse violence seen in Israel and the occupied territories in years. Naturally, the repercussions are being felt here in Canada as members of both the Jewish and the Palestinian communities now share worry about family members in the Middle East as their seems to be no end in site for the crisis.

On Tuesday afternoon, the death toll in this conflict resulted in the highest number of casualties in the conflict in nearly 10 years. Rocket fire from Gaza continues to bombard targets in Israel and troops from Israel Defense Forces are engaged in firefights in various places in the strip while maintaining an aerial bombardment. U.S. President Joe Biden offered unequivocal support for Israel in an address to the nation Tuesday afternoon, as it was confirmed that 14 Americans were among the hundreds killed in the war.

There have been no reports of Canadian casualties so far, but that has not mitigated the concern. Now local Guelph politicians and groups are offering their thoughts on the conflict, and their support for people who are concerned about friends and families caught in the crossfire half a world away.

“The terror attacks by Hamas on Israel are senseless and horrific. We stand with our local Jewish community as they watch with concern and feel heartbreak from afar. Let us seek peace and stand together to condemn these actions,” said Mayor Cam Guthrie is a statement posted on the City’s website Tuesday morning.

“In solidarity with Israel, starting at dusk, Market Square at Guelph City Hall will be lit up in blue and white this week.”

The Upper Grand District School Board posted a statement on their website along with information about how best to talk to kids about the conflict and to answer any concerns that might have developed around the news.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the recent deadly attacks and ongoing violence in the Middle East. Our thoughts are with all those impacted and mourning the loss of life during the conflict over the past weekend,” said the statement co-signed by UGDSB Chair Ralf Mesenbrink and Director of Education Peter Sovran. “We acknowledge this is a particularly devastating time for UGDSB students, staff and families who are connected to the region. These students and communities need our support, understanding, compassion, and care.”

The Chabad of Guelph is organizing what they’re called a gathering of unity, support and prayer on Wednesday at 5:30 pm in the backyard of their 81 College Avenue West location.

The board of directors for Guelph’s synagogue and community centre Beth Isaiah provided a statement to Guelph Today saying that they’re saddened and horrified by the attacks, and while members of the community may hold differing political views, we’re all united in grief and the condemnation of terrorism.

“Our hearts go out to everyone who is grieving or missing loved ones, those whose friends and family members are serving, and the people who are living in a state of war and uncertainty,” the statement said. “We are praying for the return of all hostages, for the recovery of those who are injured, for the souls of those who were murdered, for a quick resolution to this conflict, and for peace.”