In an initiative by Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), 300 supporters and donors from 33 countries have arrived in Israel for a solidarity mission. This distinguished delegation, which includes KKL presidents, CEOs, and board members, are in Israel to reinforce support for its residents and authorities facing the ongoing war. Over the past year, these international supporters have demonstrated unwavering commitment to Israel, contributing extensively to aid for displaced residents, local authorities, and the restoration of forests damaged by enemy actions.
The opening event took place last night (Sunday) at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem, featuring President Isaac Herzog, KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski, and other prominent Israeli figures.
President Herzog opened the event with a poignant address, stating: "Since October 7th, we have seen the unique nature of our people shine strongly through the cracks of crisis. We have seen our people drop everything at first call to protect and defend their brothers and sisters, their communities, and their country. We have seen the most beautiful face of our civil society, responding to emergency with generosity and selflessness. And we have seen Jews and supporters from around the world proclaim with a crystal-clear voice: 'Hineini! We are here!'. We are here to offer comfort and immediate aid to Israel’s suffering communities. Here to carry Israel in our hearts. And here to help rebuild. This, friends, is the legacy of KKL- JNF. A historic organization that has built upon the goodwill of Jews around the world to make Israel blossom and grow from the very beginning. Today again, we will make that forest - and every other site of destruction - sites of rebuilding, regeneration, and rebirth."
The event was dedicated to honoring the victims, survivors, and heroes of the October 7th attacks. Participants heard moving accounts of bravery and resilience, focusing on the transition from memory to hope and revival. Among the featured stories were those of Eden Nimri and Oshri Moshe Butzhak. Captain Eden Nimri, who fell during the first day of the war engaged in a fierce gunfight with terrorists at the Nahal Oz outpost, saving the lives of several soldiers with her team. Captain Oshri Moshe Butzhak, who was killed in December 2023 in Gaza during a confrontation with terrorists, exhibited exceptional courage as he led his troops through a complex battle.
KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski addressed the attendees, stating: "The history of the Jewish people is not merely a sequence of expulsions and pogroms; it is a narrative of resilience and growth emerging from these challenges. It embodies the spirit of rising from the ashes, recognizing the present, and holding hope for the future. This evening represents a significant connection between Jewish communities worldwide and the current developments in Israel."
Throughout the war, KKL-JNF has undertaken extensive efforts to provide sustainable support to residents in the Western Negev and northern Israel, as well as to local authorities affected by the violence. The organization has invested hundreds of millions of shekels in rebuilding devastated communities and constructing temporary housing for displaced residents. KKL-JNF has also allocated substantial funds for firefighting efforts, immediate and long-term support for security forces and residents, and the rehabilitation of KKL-JNF forests damaged by terrorist activities during the war.
During the event, a special film was presented, highlighting the global rise of antisemitism and its severe impact on Jewish communities worldwide.
Through its various offices, KKL-JNF is committed to combating antisemitism with innovative educational initiatives while promoting tolerance and solidarity. As Ifat Ovadia-Luski emphasized during the event: "Especially against the backdrop of ongoing security tensions, the arrival of KKL representatives from around the world to witness our efforts to cultivate and develop the land is both impressive and inspiring. We at KKL-JNF will continue to serve as a bridge connecting the Jewish diaspora to Israel, addressing the challenges of rebuilding while providing mutual support to communities facing antisemitic incidents over the past year."
The evening also featured a moving film symbolizing "Revival," with performances by siblings Michal and Roee Greenlick, whose brother IDF officer Shauli, a singer, was tragically killed while fighting in Gaza.
In the coming week, the mission will visit various sites, primarily in Israeli communities near the Gaza Envelope, to review key projects that have received significant funding over the past year. The delegation will also engage with local leaders to understand the post-conflict needs and challenges, aiming to support reconstruction and restore normalcy to southern communities.
