The last hearing this month: The legal battle of the Zalka family continues

This coming Wednesday, August 19, a protest and memorial rally will be held outside the courthouse in Lod in memory of Imanu Benjamin Zalka, who was brutally murdered at a pizzeria in Petah Tikva on the night of Independence Day. Organized by his family and friends, the rally will take place at 11:30 at 3 Sderot HaTzionut Street, concurrently with the final legal hearing of the month regarding his case.

The purpose of the rally is to unite in memory of Imanu and to raise a firm voice for justice, accountability, and the safety of young people in public spaces. The organizers call on the public to support the family in their legal and public struggle to ensure a deterrent punishment and prevent further acts of violence.

The rally follows recent memorial projects, including the dedication of a new Torah scroll to the Bnei Akiva branch in Malbas, Petah Tikva. Imanu (of blessed memory) was a trainee, counselor, and valued coordinator at the branch, where his two brothers are currently active. During the shiva, his friends decided to raise funds for a new Torah scroll to serve the trainees in his honor.

Through an extensive fundraising campaign, they raised approximately 90,000 shekels with the support of the Petah Tikva Municipality, the Zalka family, and the Mantzichim organization. The event, held near what would have been Imanu's 21st birthday, began with the writing of letters at the family home, followed by a procession to the branch's Holy Ark, attended by family, friends, rabbis, and the mayor.

Between the uncompromising legal struggle for justice and the commemoration of his character through Torah and education, the family and friends of Imanu Zalka continue to work tirelessly to ensure his spirit remains present in the heart of the community.