Exactly two years after Simchat Torah 2023 when, instead of celebrating, Sderot residents barricaded themselves inside safe rooms as Hamas terrorists roamed the streets and massacred anyone in their sight, hundreds of families in the city are opening their homes to guests from across Israel, free of charge.
“The enemy wanted to silence our streets and stop our celebrations,” said Yaniv Tsabari, a local resident who initiated the effort. “This year, we’re showing that joy and mutual responsibility are stronger than anything.”
“A Sderot resident today is someone who knows exactly the price of living here and is willing to pay it. But he also demands that the state be a full partner, not a distant commander. This identity is built on resilience and a rightful demand for shared responsibility.”
“Sderot is the beating heart of the fight for the Israeli home. Our experience is the defining lesson of an entire generation. When we are strong — all of Israel is strong.” said Elad Kalimi, deputy mayor of Sderot.