Nir Oz, a kibbutz just three kilometers from the Gaza border, has had its world turned upside down. Today’s change is stunning in that it follows the attacks and war that began on October 7, 2023. The community of 400 residents, including famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, grew in a tranquil space with tree-filled corridors. Now they are forced to bear the heavy burden of recent tragedy. On that terrible day, the kibbutz endured unspeakable horrors. Abolishing their homegrown genocidal ordinance Before 1998, more than a quarter of its tiny population had been murdered or abducted.
What Nir Oz endured was not just the unspeakable killing and kidnapping of newborns, grandparents and entire family units. Among them was Yocheved Lifshitz, released after 17 terrifying days in captivity. Her husband, Oded, sadly lost his life during the journey. In February, his remains were repatriated in exchange for the release of hostages and political prisoners.
As the community begins to heal, they eagerly await the return of the remaining hostages who have spent an agonizing 737 days in captivity. On Monday, members of Nir Oz gathered in Kiryat Gat, their temporary refuge. They were joined through a Zoom connection by their fellow residents who they could not wait to welcome – Matan Zangauker, Ariel Cunio, David Cunio, and Eitan Horn. This reunion was a powerful demonstration of their common sorrow as well as hope for restoration.
In Kiryat Gat, Rita Lifshitz took charge of organizing refreshments for the gathering, determined to create a welcoming atmosphere for community members awaiting news. While the atmosphere was tense with anticipation, Dalit Ram Aharon shined with happiness at the news of the prospects of their hostages return. She leaned against a crate of newly printed t-shirts featuring the returning pair’s likenesses.
“We are so overjoyed that they are coming back,” – Dalit Ram Aharon
When media attention began to focus on the larger political talks and optimistic celebration, confusion broke out among the throngs. The elation from the hostages’ return only inflamed the situation. This made a lot of folks rightfully angry. Their auspicious homecoming—the return of their loved ones—was marred. Shlomo Margalit expressed this feeling beautifully, expressing fear that the future remains unclear.
“I feel like saying – wait a minute – we’re not done yet. Our folks are not home yet.” – Shlomo Margalit
Prior to the events that started on October 7, hardly anyone in Israel would have been able to find Nir Oz on a map. Our community Nir Oz has become a symbol of the tragic events of that day. Beyond that, this small town continues to powerfully illuminate, teach, and catalyze critical national conversations about resilience, community strength, and more.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was given the honor of leading off. He extolled the need for consensus and conviction when confronted with attacks. His comments highlighted the community’s bravery in facing these dark days.
“When others were weak, you were strong. When others were fearful, you were bold. When others abandoned us, you stood by our side.” – Netanyahu
The high-profile nature of these events in a contentious political environment captured the focus of former President Donald Trump. Recognizing Israel’s extraordinary military achievements, he nonetheless commented on the deeper, longer-term realities in play.
“Israel, with our help, has won all that they can by force of arms. You’ve won. I mean, you’ve won.” – Trump
He was careful to voice doubts about applause breaks when the fight continues.
“Cigars and champagne – who the hell cares about that?” – Trump
As the day progressed though, you could sense the excitement and nervous energy among community members. Pledge signatories Members of the Polaris Project just prior to receiving their first #NatCon17 pledge form. That violence still has lethal and traumatizing effects. Despite the sadness, the mood is again one of hope as neighbors across the city come together to protect each other through this tough time and beyond.
Others nervously waited for word on their family members who were missing. The spirit of Nir Oz proved resilient and powerful. The obstacles they encounter only strengthen their determination to reconstruct their neighborhood and pay tribute to those they’ve lost.
