Peoria Standard

In response to the unprovoked and deadly attacks by Hamas-led terrorist groups on Israel last October, several U.S. state governments stepped up to lend a helping hand financially to the Israelis. The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office pledged to buy an additional $10 million in Israel Bonds at the onset of the attacks, continuing the longstanding relationship between Illinois and Israel that dates back to the Middle Eastern country’s creation in 1948. Illinois now has over $100 million in total Israel bond holdings.

Peoria’s Sam Rothberg, the founder of the Israel Bonds program, facilitated the first sales of those bonds in 1951. Rothberg, a successful business executive, was deeply moved by the plight of the Holocaust victims and vowed to help them in any way he could, which led to the establishment of the Israel Bonds program that has raised billions for Israel’s development. The Jerusalem Post honored Rothberg's legacy by calling him a "giant of a man" and acknowledging his significant contribution to Israel's growth and development.

Governments and other investors of Israel Bonds are essentially loaning money to Israel for their government to use at its discretion, with Israel offering competitive interest rates and a strong record of reliable payments. Private credit agencies Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard and Poor’s have all issued consistently high credit ratings to Israel.

The commitment of Illinois and other states to invest in Israel Bonds not only demonstrates financial support but also strengthens the bond between the United States and Israel, contributing to Israel's economic growth and stability.