In a show of support for Israel, dozens of people gathered behind Menachem Mendel Academy in Scottsdale on Wednesday, May 12. Organized by the Israeli American Council, the âStand with Israelâ rally was one of 19 held in cities across the United States following days of escalating violence in the region. In a casual and upbeat atmosphere, people cheerfully greeted one another and chatted in small groups in the late afternoon sun. Some held homemade signs supportive of Israel and others waved American or Israeli flags, while some simply draped large Israeli flags across their shoulders tied loosely at their necks. Many people had children in tow and seemed to know one another.