Israel Active

While Israeli citizens in the South are returning to their homes, many in the North have never left. The residents of this region - Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze alike - have become the guardians of their homeland, refusing to abandon the land they love, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.

On Oct 7, residents of Kibbutz Magen fought off dozens of invading Hamas terrorists (video link below). They were then evacuated to the Dead Sea, from where 90% have since returned to their Kibbutz. Their stories of resilience give strength to Jews everywhere.

The Israeli Police has inaugurated its first bullet-proof ambulances. They will enhance the safety of search and rescue forces, particularly in high-risk areas. They were funded and supported by non-profits Israel Friends and Let's Do Something (LDS) which have both raised millions since Oct 7.

Hundreds gathered in Jerusalem for a ceremony celebrating the completion of a Torah scroll dedicated to the hostages still held in Gaza. The event was led by the parents of hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin and the scroll will be used at their Hakhel Minyan Shivyoni synagogue in Baka.

28 Israeli children with serious diseases were taken to Camp Simcha, the Chai Lifeline Jewish summer camp in the Catskills for children with life-threatening or debilitating ailments. The infirmary is staffed by eight nurses, several doctors, and specialists.

As Grande Synagogue of Paris Chief Rabbi Moshe Sebbag declared, “There is no future for Jews in France.” another plane-load of French Jews arrived in Israel to begin new lives.

Israeli archaeologists in the City of David have uncovered a 70-meters ancient fortification moat that once protected Jerusalem during the Kingdom of Judah nearly 3,000 years ago. This moat formed a massive channel that separated the City of David from the Temple Mount.

Despite the war, much has been happening in Israel’s capital. Huge crowds at the Western Wall, especially on the 9th of Av; new roads being built; the annual Yom Iyun Bible study; Knesset committees; Indigenous Peoples Day; National Library children’s exhibit; and Olympic medalists.

On Oct 7, South African brothers Keith and Brett Isaacson risked their lives to protect Gaza border communities. Brett, defended the Mivtahim Junction, the main access point to 7 moshavim. Keith, head of security for 32 Eshkol region communities, blocked further attacks.

More than 2,000 medical, nursing, and social work students from Ben-Gurion University volunteered in hospitals throughout Israel in the days immediately Oct 7. They provided medical and psychological assistance to the thousands of injured Israelis and their families.