Each family will get a "Tree of Life" certificate, symbolizing its rebirth after the return from captivity. Two planting spots are reserved for the return of the children Kfir and Ariel Bibas, who are still held captive by Hamas with their children Yarden and Shiri.
Michal Reisberg, Shiri Bibas' cousin: "Taking part in this planting ceremony is both moving and painful. I would have been happy to be the one planting a tree with Shiri, Ariel, Kfir and Yarden. I am of course happy for the families who plant to honor the children returned from captivity. I believe that we will also get to plant a tree and start a new life."
"We see the success of the IDF soldiers, who fulfill the important mission of protecting us from murderous terrorists. The planting ceremonies are also symbolic of our existence as the people of the bible. I hope and pray that we will get to plant a tree and start a new life with Ariel, Kfir, Shiri and Yarden. We are worried about them. A single spoon of rice and a quarter-pita bread that they get in captivity is not a sufficient nutrition for children. A dark and isolated place is not appropriate for a small baby taking its first steps. They need to get back home, and we pray for them to return with the other captives."
KKL-JNF Chair, Ifat Ovadia-Luski: "Planting for the children who returned from captivity symbolizes rebirth and emphasizes life, growth and continuity. We reserve two planting spots for the children of the Bibas family, and wish a quick return for its children and the rest of the kidnapped." KKL-JNF Chair addressed the Bibas family directly, and assured them that "When the Bibas family return, we will all meet here again, to plant and celebrate with them."
Photograph: Shahar Cohen, KKL-JNF