Thousands Gather for Prayers at Nova Site Amid Memorial Site Disputes
Thousands gathered at the Nova site in Re'im for prayers led by Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu, amid debates over memorial guidelines and celebrations at the October 7 site.
Thousands of Jews gathered on Friday at the Nova festival site in Re'im to recite Hallel, led by Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu. The event followed controversies surrounding the planned "Simchat Torah in Re'im" gathering.
Memorial Site Regulations
The Jewish National Fund (JNF-KKL) emphasized that the site is designated strictly for memorial and remembrance. JNF-KKL stated that, in coordination with the Israel Police and security forces, no celebrations or organized activities outside of remembrance would be permitted.
"Just as no person would dare think of holding a party at the Auschwitz death camp, it is unthinkable to hold any celebration at the Nova site in the Re'im forest, where 378 civilians and security personnel were murdered," said JNF-KKL Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky.
Authorities banned setting up tents, camping, sound systems, and lighting fires, including barbecues. However, JNF-KKL arranged a dedicated prayer area outside the primary memorial zone.
Diverse Perspectives Among Families
The planned "Simchat Torah in Re'im" event, organized by Zigi and Etti Medad alongside the Tikva Forum, bereaved families, and Nova survivors, aims to include Torah study, prayers, and hakafot shniyot. While some families view returning to the site as an expression of resilience, others oppose celebratory gatherings in the area.
