|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
An emotional event dedicated to honoring immigrant soldiers who gave their lives in the ongoing war against Hamas and Hezbollah was held earlier this month by the One Million Lobby Association at the American Zionist House in Jerusalem.
This somber gathering, which drew attention to the contributions and sacrifices of immigrant members of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and security personnel, served as a powerful reminder of the invaluable role played by those who have come to Israel from across the globe.
The event, organized in partnership with several notable organizations, was designed to commemorate the lives of approximately 60 soldiers and security personnel who immigrated to Israel from various countries, including the former Soviet Union, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, and Russia, and were tragically killed in the conflict that erupted on October 7, 2023.
These individuals, who made the courageous decision to leave their homes in search of a better life in Israel, ultimately paid the ultimate price in defense of their adopted homeland.
A Tribute to Immigrant Heroes
The One Million Lobby Association, an Israeli-based NGO that advocates for the needs of Russian-speaking immigrants, led the event with the goal of ensuring that these fallen soldiers are never forgotten.
The event was not only a commemoration but also an affirmation of the critical role immigrants have played throughout Israel’s history.
The evening featured an exhibition that highlighted the personal stories of the soldiers, allowing attendees to connect with their experiences and their dedication to the state of Israel.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Jewish Agency for Israel Chairman Doron Almog, and Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli were among the distinguished attendees, joining members of the bereaved families who had lost loved ones in the war.
The presence of these high-ranking officials underscored the deep national significance of the event, which was a moment to reflect on both the personal sacrifices of the soldiers and the broader national effort to defend Israel during these difficult times.
In his remarks, President Isaac Herzog spoke emotionally about the importance of remembering the immigrant soldiers and their families, highlighting their journey to Israel and their determination to protect the country.
“This unique commemorative event in memory of soldiers and security forces who immigrated to Israel alone or with their families from many countries in the world and fell in this difficult war,” Herzog said.
“This event brings before our eyes the story of generations of immigrant soldiers, and heroes who made aliyah to Israel and defended the people with their souls.”
A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
The event was not only about the past but also about honoring the present and future of Israel.
One of the poignant moments was the participation of immigrant students from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, who accompanied the bereaved families, showing solidarity and support.
These students, many of whom themselves are immigrants, are a living testament to the continuing journey of those who come to Israel seeking a new life while contributing to the security and prosperity of the nation.
The commemorative ceremony included a tribute to the fallen soldiers, with speeches from various leaders and personal testimonies from the families of the deceased.
The event also sought to raise awareness about the importance of remembering these individuals as integral parts of Israel’s history, particularly at a time when the country faces continued threats from militant groups in the region.
Alex Rif, the CEO of One Million Lobby Association, emphasized the importance of preserving the stories of these soldiers.
“As part of the national-Zionist war story that will be written in the pages of history, we are here to make sure that the stories of the soldiers and security personnel who fell in the war will not be forgotten, and will be an integral part of the Israeli narrative,” Rif said.
In addition to the emotional speeches and tributes, the event also featured a series of exhibits dedicated to the lives of these soldiers, sharing details about their backgrounds, their service, and their sacrifice.
The stories were diverse, with each individual representing a unique journey, but the common thread among all of them was their dedication to Israel and their willingness to lay down their lives for the country.
Honoring the Fallen
Among the soldiers remembered at the event were several individuals whose stories stood out due to the tragic circumstances of their deaths and their contributions to Israel’s security.
- Maj.-Gen. Akiva Yasinsky, 36, originally from the former Soviet Union, was killed in Khan Yunis, Gaza, while leading a mission to defend Israeli civilians from Hamas.
- Capt. Yaakov Nedlin, 36, who immigrated from Kazakhstan, was killed in the village of Immatain in the West Bank while conducting a counter-terrorism operation.
- St.-Sgt. Berhanu Kasia, 22, from Ethiopia, was killed in Gaza during a daring rescue mission to save hostages taken by Hamas fighters.
- Chief Warrant Officer Major Yakir Blochman, 33, from Russia, was killed by Hamas gunmen during a raid in Kibbutz Re’im.
Each of these individuals came to Israel with the intention of building a better life, only to find themselves on the front lines of the war against extremism and terror.
Their deaths reflect the broader struggle faced by Israel in its ongoing battle for survival against forces like Hamas and Hezbollah, which seek to destabilize the region and undermine the existence of the Jewish state.
Solidarity and Support from the International Community
The presence of officials such as Herzog, Almog, and Chikli highlighted the importance of international solidarity and support for Israel during this period of crisis.
These leaders emphasized the role of the Jewish diaspora in supporting the country and recognized the profound sacrifice made by immigrants who made aliyah to Israel in pursuit of a new life but ultimately gave everything for their country.
Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli, who attended the event, acknowledged the unique bond between Israel and the Jewish communities worldwide, stating, “The sacrifices made by these soldiers and their families remind us that Israel’s strength is rooted not just in its borders but in the hearts of Jews around the world who stand with us in our hour of need.”
Ensuring the Legacy Lives On
The One Million Lobby Association, which focuses on the rights and needs of Russian-speaking immigrants in Israel, played a critical role in ensuring that these fallen soldiers would not be forgotten.
Through their efforts, the event was not only a moment of remembrance but also an opportunity to highlight the ongoing contributions of immigrants to Israel’s security.
The event’s organizers believe that the sacrifices of these soldiers must be woven into the larger narrative of Israeli history, ensuring that their memory is preserved for future generations.
As Alex Rif said, “Their stories are part of the broader Zionist narrative, and we must continue to tell these stories to ensure that their heroism is never forgotten.”
Conclusion: A Heroic Legacy
The event held by the One Million Lobby Association serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Israel.
The fallen soldiers, many of whom were immigrants, represent the diverse fabric of Israeli society—individuals who came from different corners of the world but shared a common vision of defending the Jewish state.
As Israel continues to face external threats, the memory of these fallen soldiers serves as a testament to the resilience and unity of the nation.
Their stories will remain an integral part of Israel’s collective history, ensuring that the legacy of their courage and sacrifice endures for generations to come.