Major Orthodox organizations were quick to thank the President for his unequivocal articulation of Israel’s right to defend herself. In the best tradition of hakoras hatov, these messages went out:

Agudath Israel

We at Agudath Israel of America, and our constituency of Orthodox Jews across the United States, salute your clear and unwavering support of Israel’s security, both in the past and the present.

Your recent public words confirming our nation’s endorsement of Israel’s right to defend herself, and placing responsibility for the current conflict squarely where it belongs, in the lap of Hamas and other terror groups in Gaza, was deeply appreciated.

As were your actions in 2010 committing considerable special aid to Israel for the expansion of the Iron Dome missile interception system, which has played so crucial a role in recent days in preventing loss of innocent life and destruction of property. We join all our fellow Americans and people of good will the world over in expressing our gratitude for your strong leadership and wisdom.

In a time when some other nations, sadly, seem equivocal regarding terrorism, whether waged by individuals or by state actors like the current government in Gaza, the clarity of vision and resolve you have demonstrated sets an example of how principle is more important than politics.

We thank you and want you to know that our prayers are with you.