“The purpose of this important event is to allow diplomats in Israel to see with their own eyes the harsh reality the Gaza Envelope residents deal with on a daily basis, as they are being harassed by incessant terror and rockets”, said Head of the Latin America Section at KKL-JNF Nili Piccion. She added: “KKL-JNF is running a large number of projects here for their security and welfare - and today we were able to present some of these projects to the ambassadors”.
During the visit the diplomats saw the security afforestation at Erez, only 3.5 km away from the Gaza Strip, where KKL-JNF protects the local population by planting trees at strategic locations. The trees prevent snipers from targeting the civilian population on the Israeli side.
The diplomats also visited the Black Arrow Memorial, where they talked to Haim Yellin, former Head of the Eshkol Regional Council and former Knesset member, who gave a detailed explanation about civil challenges in the region.
The ambassadors also visited the KKL-JNF-sponsored Sderot Resilience Center. The center provides local with psychological treatment for post-traumatic symptoms caused by attacks from Gaza.
The ambassadors were impressed with KKL-JNF’s efforts to provide psychological support for the community.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the Iron Dome air defense system.
The diplomats had an opportunity to see and learn the ins and outs of this impressive defense system, which is vital to the safety of Israeli citizens.
When the tour was over the ambassadors thanked KKL-JNF for the opportunity to participate in this very special, informative day.
The event enabled them to better understand the challenges faced by the local population, and to appreciate the KKL-JNF’s efforts and commitment of to improving quality of life in the region.
Photograph: KKL-JNF