As a Jewish and Zionist organization, KKL-JNF is dedicated to rehabilitating affected communities and developing the region. As Israel's national forestry authority, KKL-JNF is responsible for restoring forested areas damaged by the events of October 7th and the ongoing war.
The ambassadors began their visit at KKL-JNF’s Gilat Nursery in the south, where they received a professional overview of the region's challenges and the initiatives KKL-JNF is leading to address them. The group then toured Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where they heard firsthand accounts of the massacre that took place there and learned about the community's recovery story. The residents of Kibbutz Kfar Aza are now temporarily living in the Ruhama neighborhoods, which were established with donations from KKL-JNF offices worldwide.
The tour continued at the site of the Nova Festival in Re’im, which was renovated and upgraded by KKL-JNF. There, the ambassadors participated in a tree-planting ceremony in Magen Forest with KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Lusky, symbolizing hope and regrowth. The day concluded with a visit to Beit Alami in Kibbutz Zikim, which was rehabilitated around a decade ago with the support of KKL-JNF Australia. The ambassadors met with members of Kibbutz Zikim, who shared their community's history and experiences.
The tour was designed to strengthen diplomatic relations with the participating countries and explore future collaborations in the fields of forestry, development, and environmental rehabilitation. Among the ambassadors who participated were those from the Netherlands, Argentina, Guatemala, Belgium, Greece, Cyprus, and several other countries.
Ifat Ovadia-Luski, KKL-JNF Chairwoman, said: "In a region where we experienced a barbaric massacre a year and a half ago, today we stand together and plant roots for new growth. This tree-planting ceremony, with representatives of these countries, is an important step in strengthening Israel’s relationships and advocacy during this complex time. The ambassadors will carry the story of Israel’s resilience to their home countries."
Attorney Shimi Baron, Acting CEO of KKL-JNF, added: "KKL-JNF was the first to respond and assist following the October attack. From the very beginning of the war, we worked to help evacuate residents and provide educational activities in the facilities where residents of the western Negev were relocated. Later, we led the construction of temporary housing for evacuees. Today, we are focused on participating in the rehabilitation of both the northern and southern regions. The diplomatic tour we held today with the participation of many ambassadors is a significant step in integrating the international community into the rehabilitation process."
Yuval Yeyni, Manager of the Funds and Economy Division and Deputy Manager of the Resource Development and External Affairs Division, stated: " The Fundraising and External Affairs Division is committed to deepening ties with Jewish communities around the world and promoting international cooperation. The participation of dozens of ambassadors in this special diplomatic tour reflects a shared global responsibility – not only for the rehabilitation of the communities affected by war and destruction but also for addressing the challenges of climate change. KKL-JNF is dedicated to restoring the affected areas, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening Israel’s ties with the nations of the world. Through strong partnerships and the adoption of innovative solutions, we can lead significant and long-term change