Mammoth Unity Event Demonstrates Solidarity with Families of Kidnapped Teens

Tens of thousands packed Rabin Square in Tel Aviv for a unity concert, prayer and show of support for the families of three teenagers kidnapped by Hamas.

Original Source: Article published in United with Israel – by: Atara Beck

Rachel Frankel, mother of Naftali, speaks at event in solidarity with the families of the kidnapped boys. (Photo: Zoe Vayer)

Approximately 75,000 people from across the country representing diverse lifestyles packed Rabin Square in Tel Aviv for a unity concert, prayer and show of love and support for the families of three teenagers kidnapped by Hamas more than two weeks ago: Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Sha’ar and Naftali Frankel.

An anonymous donor funded the event, which was organized by OneFamily, Israel’s only national organization solely dedicated to the rehabilitation of victims of terror attacks and their families.

United with Israel staff member Jacob Israel, a Spanish immigrant who made aliyah in January 2012, was deeply moved.

President Reuven (Ruby) Rivlin addresses crowd at unity event in Tel Aviv. (Photo: Zoe Vayer)

“The mothers of our boys have already thanked us. Today it is our turn,” he said, noting their profound courage and dignity.

“Thanks to Bat Galim, Racheli and Iris for your example. For your love. For your hope and your inspiration. In tough times Am Israel (the Hebrew nation) demonstrates its strength. Am Yisrael is more alive today than ever. The event we attended yesterday demonstrates that vitality and unity. We are one.”

Speakers at the event, including each of the mothers and President-elect Reuven Rivlin, spoke briefly yet poignantly.

Although the largest event in solidarity with the families since the abduction, many programs demonstrating support and unity have been taking place throughout Israel.