In the Southern Israeli town of Ofakim and along the tense border with Gaza, I recently had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable morale and dedication of Israeli men and women on the frontlines in the battle for the future of Israel. Accompanied by a Canadian philanthropist who had journeyed to Israel to express gratitude on behalf of the 400,000 Canadian Jews, our visit provided a poignant insight into the selflessness of the Bnot Sherut who are protecting the home front and the brotherhood among Israeli reserve duty soldiers stationed on the Gaza border.

A Canadian philanthropist and community leader reached out to me last week to ask if I could help arrange a visit to those on the front lines. I have known him for several years given his role as a leading political advocate in Canada on behalf of the local Jewish community. He is also the child of holocaust survivors and an ardent Zionist who has dedicated his life to helping Jews around the world and strengthening the State of Israel. During this challenging time, he wanted to give support on behalf of the Canadian Jewish community to those who are standing in defense of the Jewish homeland. His presence underscored the interconnectedness of the global Jewish community and the importance of standing together in times of challenge.

Our first stop in Ofakim was a meeting with Bnot Sherut, a group of extraordinary 18-year-olds who have chosen to devote two years of their lives to national service through the Bat Ami Organization. Bnot Sherut (national service volunteers) volunteer for two years of service in lieu of military service. The serve in a wide array of roles, often in Israel’s most underprivileged communities. Many of these young women directly witnessed the horrific terror attack of October 7th in Ofakim, which claimed the lives of over 50 residents. Despite their own trauma and anxiety, these Bnot Sherut decided to move past the fear and dedicate themselves to helping others. What struck me immediately was their unwavering selflessness. These young women, with a maturity beyond their years, are not only providing support to those in need but are also actively strengthening the home front. Their commitment to others is tremendously inspiring; they have become the backbone of the community, comforting the dozens of families who lost loved ones in the attack, aiding families at risk, home bound seniors, special needs communities, and patients in hospitals.

As we engaged with the Bnot Sherut, it became evident that their service is driven by a profound sense of duty and compassion. They are the embodiment of the values of religious Zionism, demonstrating a deep commitment to the well-being of their fellow citizens. Their acts of kindness and their ability to navigate challenging situations with grace and resilience left an indelible mark.

Our journey continued to the border with Gaza, where we met Israeli reserve duty soldiers who had left behind their families, their jobs, and the comforts of their civilian lives to serve their country in a time of need. The level of dedication and sacrifice displayed by these soldiers was humbling. They spoke of the importance of their mission, and the deep sense of responsibility they felt towards protecting their homeland, and their certainty of victory.

The brotherhood among these soldiers was palpable. Leaving behind their families and the familiarities of civilian life, they had forged bonds that transcended the conventional notions of camaraderie. Their commitment to one another and their shared purpose exemplified the strength of the Israeli spirit in the face of adversity.

As I reflect on the high morale, selflessness, and brotherhood witnessed during this visit, I am reassured of Israel's resilience and determination. The commitment of the Bnot Sherut and the Israeli soldiers reflects the indomitable spirit that has characterized Israel throughout its history. Their sacrifices and acts of selflessness are a testament to the strength of Israeli society.

In the midst of challenges and uncertainties, the bonds forged on the frontlines serve as a powerful foundation for the future. Israel's triumph in this war is not only inevitable but also emblematic of the unyielding spirit of its people. The relationships strengthened between Israel and the diaspora Jewish community during these testing times will undoubtedly create a more robust and interconnected global Jewish family.