As members of an academic community with deep interest in the Middle East and North Africa region, we extend our sympathy and concern for all impacted by the violence in Israel and Gaza. The Middle East Studies Center remains committed to providing academic spaces for learning and discussion while we also recognize the devastating nature of the acts of violence and the humanitarian crisis we are witnessing.  

We are grieving here on campus and many of us are feeling helpless as we watch the events unfold. Our Ohio State values (https://www.osu.edu/shared-values) commend us to “care and compassion” for our own community. We value an engaged community with a diversity of people and perspectives and a commitment to support each other’s physical and mental health.  

In this video, "Violence in Israel and Gaza: What's Going On?" faculty members at Ohio State shed light on the current situation. We invite you join our online communities on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), and listen to the podcast we did with John Quigley on “Jerusalem Since 1947” and the podcast with Naomi Brenner on “How Israeli Film Deals with Israeli Society and Diversity. 

For students, the Office of Student Life’s Counseling and Consultation Service has a list of resources that are available 24/7. Students can also access support and resources provided by the Student Wellness Center, Student Advocacy Center and the Center for Belonging and Social Change. Faculty and staff can utilize the Employee Assistance Program. The Wexner Medical Center’s Stress, Trauma and Resilience (STAR) program and the Office of Institutional Equity are available to students, faculty and staff.