KIBBUTZ HOLIT, Israel – A former University of Washington (UW) student has been killed in Israel after the Hamas terrorist attack.
Hayim Katsman graduated with his Ph.D. from the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies in 2021. According to UW, Katsman was killed by a Hamas gunman in Kibbutz Holit, where he lived.
“Here at the UW, he dedicated his scholarship to understanding the interrelations of religion and politics in Israel and Palestine — a vital contribution to understanding this region in the hopes of finding reconciliation,” said Ana Mari Casuce, the president of the University.
The UW Office of Student Life is reaching out to any student who may have been affected by this tragedy. If you need support, resources can be found on the UW website.
Over 1,200 people have been killed and thousands are missing since Hamas’ first airstrike on Oct. 7. This is the deadliest attack on Israel in over 50 years.
Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers released a statement after the State Department confirmed Americans citizens were killed in the attack.
“The death of innocent American citizens at the hands of Hamas terrorists is devastating news that underscores how dire the situation in Israel is. My prayers are with all of the victims and their families enduring unimaginable grief and profound loss. The United States of America must meet this moment with unwavering support of Israel as they stand in the face of unspeakable evil. I’m calling on President Biden to make the tough decisions necessary to bring all American hostages home, hold Iran accountable for their role in these atrocities, and provide our ally with every resource they need to win this war. These are times for moral courage to ensure that these heinous acts of terror will never be tolerated,” McMorris Rodgers said.
Spokane City Councilmember Jonathan Bingle is calling for action right here at home, in Spokane. During Monday night’s city council meeting, Bingle plans to bring forward a proposed resolution that will: Condemn the violent acts of war perpetrated by Hamas and its allies against the state of Israel, which have caused immense suffering in the region. Affirm Israel’s right to exist and to defend itself against acts of aggression and terrorism. And express support for the residents of Spokane, including those of both Jewish and Palestinian heritages – Reaffirming commitment to fostering a community that is welcoming to all. Bingle told NonStop Local KHQ Monday afternoon that what is happening in the middle east right now, in his opinion, is “unequivocally the worst thing to happen to the Jewish community since the Holocaust.” “A member of my community reached out to me and told me their daughter lives in Israel and they’re living through that right now, which is tough to imagine,” Bingle said. “The statement came out of talking with a number of community members and just addressing their concerns and making a strong statement as the city of Spokane.” Bingle hopes his fellow city council members will vote to approve the resolution Monday night. On Sunday, there will be a rally for Israel at the rotary fountain. Bingle said he plans on attending the rally, which is scheduled to start at three p.m.
