Dear UCSF Community,

As the world learns more about the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas that have claimed so many innocent Israeli lives, our grief is compounded by the scores of people still missing and the escalating war that is causing greater casualties, both Israeli and Palestinian. Ours is a community committed to advancing health for all, and we denounce the targeting of civilians in the region amid the increasing hostilities. 

I respect that people in our community hold different perspectives on the complex, decades-long history between Israel and Palestine. Given the enormity of the pain and suffering that people are experiencing right now, I encourage us all to continue offering kindness and empathy to those who are grieving and have family, friends, and other loved ones caught up in this terrible conflict.

Below I share with you a statement issued last night from University of California Board of Regents Chair Richard Leib and UC President Michael V. Drake.

Sincerely,

Sam Hawgood, MBBS
Chancellor
Arthur and Toni Rembe Rock Distinguished Professor

University of California statement on Mideast violence

University of California Board of Regents Chair Richard Leib and
UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D.

Our hearts are heavy in the face of the horrific attack on Israel over the weekend, which involved the loss of many innocent lives and the abduction of innocent hostages, including children and the elderly. This was an act of terrorism, launched on a major Jewish holiday. What should have been a quiet weekend of rest turned into days of unspeakable terror and shock. The violence is sickening and incomprehensible, and as of this moment we still do not know the fate of the hostages. This act deserves and requires our collective condemnation.

With missiles continuing to rain down on Israeli cities and warfare now under way in Gaza, the number of innocents affected are multiplying by the hour. As a University community, which includes people from all different nationalities, faiths and political beliefs, our expressions of grief extend to all innocent people affected by this ongoing conflict. We know many members of the University of California community are deeply and directly affected by these events. Our thoughts are with you. We encourage you to seek out support services on your campus if you are struggling.

We continue to hope for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict that has left so many people grieving, suffering, wounded, or killed.

We are grateful that all known UC students, faculty, and staff currently in the region are accounted for and safe. UC officials are in contact with them, and they are receiving guidance and following local security recommendations. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take action as appropriate.

Additional resources and information for the University of California community can be found at the following links:

• U.S. Embassy Jerusalem: Security Alerts
• UC Education Abroad Program emergency information
• University of California campus counseling centers