December 24, 2023
Shalom, our dear overseas friends,A few days ago, I entered Gaza myself, witnessing firsthand the dimensions of our soldiers' fight. It's challenging to describe their determination to bring security to the people of Israel and their unwavering dedication. Our soldiers call for the unity of our people, and it is our duty to foster this unity in every step we take, in every conversation we have, and in every initiative we create.
Kol Israel Arevim ze laze!
I want to update you on the current situation in Ramat HaNegev, as despite the ongoing challenges of this difficult war and the many families who have lost their homes, we are striving to create a situation of relative stability.
Looking ahead to the next 90 days, Kibbutz Kerem Shalom will join the Ashlim community next week, bringing 60 more households into our community.
1) Our education system is fully occupied, and we are actively seeking solutions to address issues such as transportation, overcrowded classrooms, and the emotional well-being of our students. In the face of the urgency, we are doing everything in our power to welcome every family that wants to join Ramat HaNegev and provide them with the full package of services:
Additionally, we are preparing to welcome more communities to our area, with Kibbutz Holit moving into the operational phase and expected to be absorbed into Kibbutz Revivim in the coming months.
2) Security remains a priority in our territory, especially for communities near the border of the Nitsana region. We actively coordinate preparedness classes, conduct drills, establish contact with military units responsible for the security of the area, and update emergency scenarios.
3) We continue our important work with the Bedouin population among us, striving to create partnership and security for everyone. We are grateful for the opportunity to elevate our attitudes and cooperation to a higher level each day.
4) Simultaneously with emergency operations, we are accelerating the development of infrastructure for demographic growth. Land preparation for the construction of new houses in the settlements of Shizaf, Kamhin, and Nitsana will begin soon. While crucial before October 7th, this issue has gained even greater significance since the tragic events.
5) Lastly, I'd like to share with you that during the last Hanukkah holiday, we held a music festival in Ramat HaNegev: Despite the debates about whether to proceed, we decided to continue playing the sounds of our identity, providing space and time for music that tells the story of our lives here. Each show touched our hearts, allowing us to connect with the words and sounds, to the private candle, and the common candle burning in the hearts of all of us.
Every morning, the news we wake up to is unbearably difficult. Just this morning, we learned about another 8 heroic soldiers who fell in the fierce battles in Gaza.
Our hearts are too small to contain this terrible sorrow. Despite these challenges, we must face reality, respond to our families, children, and mothers, and find solace in the continued construction of our country and state.
Once again, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. Your hug provides us with the motivation to persevere, to continue building, and nurturing the next generation.
Sincerely Yours,
Eran Doron.