Tragedy Strikes kedumim: Three Lives Lost in Devastating Attack
The quiet community of Kedumim was shattered yesterday as three residents, Rachel Cohen, Eliza Raiz, and Elad Winkelstein, were brutally murdered in a terror attack near Kfar Pondok. The victims, laid to rest in the local cemetery, leave behind grieving families and a community in mourning.
Rachel Cohen, 73, was a retired educational consultant remembered for her boundless kindness and unwavering faith. Her daughter, Naomi, described her as “a woman full of joy, kindness, and positive energy,” who was a pillar of strength for her family and community. Rachel’s life was tragically intertwined with another act of terror; she was the best friend of Rachel Gabish, who was murdered in the 2002 Alon-Mora attack.
Eliza Raiz, 70, was a vibrant and steadfast woman who began her university education at 40 and never looked back. Her son, Yair, shared, “She was a woman larger then life, who did everything with her 10 fingers.” An entrepreneur and dedicated volunteer in the Civil Guard, Eliza’s legacy is one of resilience and compassion.
The attack has left the Kedumim community reeling. Ozal, a former head of the Kedumim Council, eulogized the victims, stating, “Kedumim suffered a severe and painful wound in the morning. our loss is hard and painful, but we will not be broken.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz visited the site of the attack,calling it “an act of war in every way.” He vowed to take strong action against the terrorists and their supporters, emphasizing, “No Jewish blood will be wasted.” Katz also commended Ami Berber, a civilian who bravely confronted the attackers, saving countless lives.
The Kedumim community remains steadfast, vowing to continue growing and developing despite the tragedy. As thay mourn their loved ones,their resilience serves as a testament to their unyielding spirit.
| Victim | Age | Legacy |
|———————|———|—————————————————————————-|
| Rachel Cohen | 73 | Educational consultant, beloved mother, and grandmother. |
| Eliza Raiz | 70 | Entrepreneur, Civil Guard volunteer, and dedicated community member. |
| Elad Winkelstein | 14 | Young life tragically cut short. |
The attack near Kedumim is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats faced by communities in the region. As the nation mourns, the call for justice and security grows louder.
Exclusive Interview: Understanding the Kedumim Attack and Its Impact on Northern Samaria
Table of Contents
In the wake of the tragic terror attack near Kedumim, which claimed the lives of Rachel Cohen, Eliza Raiz, and Elad Winkelstein, the community and the nation are grappling with grief, resilience, and calls for stronger security measures. Senior Editor of world-today-news.com, Michael Harris, sat down with Dr. Yael Niv, a specialist in Middle Eastern security and counterterrorism, to discuss the implications of this devastating event and the broader challenges facing communities in Northern Samaria.
The Immediate Aftermath: Grief and Resilience
Michael Harris: Dr. Niv,the Kedumim community has suffered a terrible loss. How do such attacks impact smaller, close-knit communities like Kedumim?
Dr.Yael Niv: The impact is profound. Communities like Kedumim are built on strong interpersonal bonds. when a tragedy like this occurs,it’s not just about the loss of lives but also the shattering of a sense of safety and normalcy. However, what’s remarkable is their resilience. Despite the pain, the community has vowed to continue growing and developing. This determination is a testament to their unyielding spirit and commitment to their way of life.
The Broader Security Context in Northern Samaria
michael Harris: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called this attack “an act of war.” how does this incident reflect the broader security challenges in Northern Samaria?
Dr. Yael Niv: Northern Samaria remains a volatile region, with ongoing threats from terrorist groups. The attack near Kedumim underscores the need for a comprehensive security strategy that addresses both immediate threats and long-term stability.Minister Katz’s vow to take strong action against terrorists and their supporters is a step in the right direction, but it’s crucial to also focus on intelligence gathering, community resilience, and regional cooperation to prevent future incidents.
The Role of Civilians in Responding to Attacks
Michael Harris: Ami Berber, a civilian, was commended for his bravery in confronting the attackers. How notable is civilian involvement in such situations?
Dr. Yael niv: Civilians like Ami Berber play a critical role in mitigating the impact of terror attacks. In many cases, their fast thinking and courage can save lives. It’s essential to provide civilians with the necesary training and resources to respond effectively during emergencies. At the same time, it’s vital to remember that the primary obligation for security lies with the state.Civilians should complement, not replace, professional security measures.
honoring the Legacy of the Victims
Michael Harris: The victims, Rachel Cohen, Eliza Raiz, and Elad Winkelstein, left behind powerful legacies. How can the community ensure their memories continue to inspire?
Dr. Yael Niv: Honoring their legacies means continuing the work they cared about. Rachel Cohen’s dedication to education, Eliza Raiz’s entrepreneurial spirit, and Elad Winkelstein’s young promise can serve as pillars for community initiatives. Scholarships, community projects, and memorial events can keep their memories alive while fostering resilience and unity. It’s a way to transform grief into action and ensure their lives continue to have a positive impact.
Conclusion
The attack near Kedumim is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats faced by communities in Northern Samaria.As the nation mourns, calls for justice, security, and resilience grow louder.Through comprehensive security strategies, community resilience, and honoring the legacies of the victims, there is hope for a safer and more united future.
