Officials at the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation are speaking out following the United States and Israel-led strikes on Iran.

"We have appreciated the Trump Administration’s diligence in pursuing a diplomatic solution to the Iranian threat over the past several weeks, and we continue to hold out hope that a peace agreement can ultimately be negotiated and secured that removes the need for military engagement," two officials with the federation stated in a news release.

The release is specifically attributed to Lisa Long, CEO, and Bonnie Deutsch Burdman, executive director and community relations/government affairs. 

Military strikes by Israel and the U.S. against Iran began on February 28, 2026.

Shortly after, it was confirmed that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed after his compound was bombed.

"The Iranian people deserve a government that prioritizes their welfare over confrontation and repression. The international community must remain focused not only on nuclear constraints, but also on Iran’s ongoing human rights abuses and support for terror. We pray for an end to the hostilities and peace for all in the region," the release states.

The Youngstown Area Jewish Federation stated that, at this time, there are no current threats to the federation or its agencies.

The release cites that the Iranian regime has pursued policies that threaten U.S. interests for decades. The federation's statement also states that the country has endangered Israel, destabilized the broader Middle East and undermined global security.

"We pray for the success of the joint United States and Israeli actions in Iran and the safety of the brave fighters of the United States Armed Forces and the Israel Defense Forces carrying them out. We also pray for the safety of innocent civilians," the release states.