A unique event under the name “Am Yisrael Chai” (“The Nation of Israel Lives”) was held today (Monday) in the city of Holon, aimed at marking the destruction of buildings that were damaged in the city as a result of missile strikes during Operation Rising Lion (Am Ka’Lavi). Instead of mourning the destruction, it was decided to commemorate the occasion in an optimistic spirit and as a declaration of strength by Israeli citizens.
Among the participants were Minister of Defense Israel Katz, Mayor Shay Keinan, and Gal Kastel, Deputy CEO and Manager of the Urban Renewal Department at Oron Real Estate – the company leading the reconstruction project.
Near the Ruins
The event was hosted by Maggie Tabibi – a news anchor on Channel 14, and Ofer Petersburg – head of the Real Estate Facebook group. It was held near the ruins at the corner of Bialik and Lavon streets, in a festive and unified atmosphere, with an emphasis on solidarity with the residents of the destroyed buildings.
Extensive Damage
During the war, an Iranian missile struck a building in Holon and caused extensive damage. Following consultations with construction and engineering experts, the municipality decided to demolish several buildings that had been damaged by the missile strike.
An Event of Hope
Ahead of the event, the Holon Municipality stated: “The ceremony, with the participation of the building residents, is an event full of hope, community empowerment, and a new beginning under the banner of ‘Am Yisrael Chai’, alongside appreciation for the police, rescue teams, Home Front Command, and volunteers who worked together on behalf of the residents.” The event symbolizes resilience and reconstruction.
Following the missile strike, the municipality has been supporting the residents whose homes were damaged. “The municipality has been supporting and embracing the evacuated residents since the beginning of the incident,” the statement read.
