Groups and industry bodies associated with the diamond and jewelry sectors have conveyed messages of solidarity following the tragic events of October 7, in which Hamas terrorists massacred 1,400 people in Israel, and kidnapped more than 230 men, women and children into Gaza.
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) announced its full support of the nation of Israel along with fellow trade groups the Diamond Manufacturers and Importers Association of America (DMIA), the Diamond Dealers Club (DDC), and the Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA). This is their full statement:
“The DMIA, DDC, IDCA, and AGTA jointly stand in full support of Israel and our Israeli friends, family, and colleagues during these trying times.
“The horrific acts of violence perpetrated on the citizens of Israel these last five days are to be unequivocally condemned, and any actions they take to assure that acts like this can never happen again are to be supported and applauded.
“Any financial help people see fit to provide to the various organizations mobilizing efforts to help the soldiers and citizens alike are to be lauded.”
The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) posted a message of support on its LinkedIn page, saying:
“The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) stands together with its members, colleagues and friends who lost loved ones or are suffering the anguish of the horrifying and inexcusable acts committed against innocent people along Israel’s southern border on Saturday. Families feel each other’s pain, and the jewellery and gemstone family feels yours.”
On its website, the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) posted the following message:
It has been a heart-wrenching week and our hearts and souls are united in condemning horrific crimes of war against civilians. The unprecedented Hamas attack on Saturday on Israel sent shockwaves around the world and as violence follows violence, we stand with all innocent Israelis and innocent Palestinians who are suffering from loss, grief, the unknown and the horror. The RJC stands against terrorism of all forms.
Last week, the board and the members of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) expressed their “solidarity with the people of Israel, as many hundreds of their citizens were victims of unspeakable, horrific acts of carnage and murder by terrorists sent from the Gaza strip by the terrorist organization Hamas.” What follows is IDMA’s full statement:
“IDMA condemns these vicious deadly attacks in all possible terms, supports Israel’s right to defend itself against the unprecedented aggression perpetrated by Hamas, and calls for the immediate and safe return of the Israeli hostages -children, women, and men – taken by the Hamas terrorists during their attacks on peaceful Israeli villages.
“As a trade organization, IDMA rarely involves itself in world politics or local conflicts,” IDMA President Ronnie VanderLinden commented. “We do so now, however, with our hearts aching. We unequivocally state our support for the people and the State of Israel and categorically condemn Hamas and their allies for the horrendous atrocities they have perpetrated, the countless murders committed, and the hundreds of hostages taken.
“We know that some of our Israeli colleagues and friends have lost close ones in the recent carnage and that many of them, as well as their children, will be putting themselves at risk as they actively defend their homeland. Our hearts go out to them. We wish them strength and perseverance.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those innocent souls wherever they may be, who are caught in the crossfire of violence beyond their control.”
Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) Chairman Arnon Juwal, CEO Aviel Elia and the IDI team also published a message of support and solidarity for the people of Israel. This is their full statement:
“On October 7th, Israel endured a brutal and inhumane attack by murderous jihadist organizations. They massacred hundreds of innocent men, women, and children, with 150 more abducted. At this moment, we mourn the loss of at least 1,300 Israelis, with over 3,000 wounded. Thousands of missiles continue to rain down on our cities, putting innocent lives in constant jeopardy.
“In response, the IDF launched a counterattack in Gaza against these despicable terrorists who have lost all sense of humanity. Many of our colleagues in the Israeli diamond industry have tragically lost friends and loved ones, and many of us have enlisted in this war thrust upon us in defense of our nation, against war criminals who cold-bloodedly slaughter babies, women, and the elderly.
“Israel stands united in the face of this grave threat and remains resolute in our determination to prevail in this war against these extremists.
“The Israel Diamond Institute extends its heartfelt gratitude to the global diamond industry for steadfastly supporting Israel during these horrifying days. We deeply appreciate your solidarity and unwavering support for our right to safeguard our residents and our nation against this shocking aggression.”
