Israel During the War

Photos by Jodi Upin

General street art “Cherish your Jewish Tribe”

The airport departure terminal was nearly empty; usually one plans to be at the airport 2 to 3 hours before departure because the lines are so long. There are posters of the hostages lining the walkway to the gate area, keeping the situation constantly in everyone’s mind.

The sign on the train reads “Together we will win.” You see it everywhere all over Israel.

The Minneapolis Jewish Community Foundation made a gift of 27 trees to the city of Rehovot to memorialize the 27 citizens that Rehovot lost on October 7. Minneapolis and Rehovot have been partner cities for 10 years. The Minneapolis and Rehovot Steering Committee of the partnership planted the trees at a recent joint steering committee meeting.

In the south, where the terrorist actions took place on October 7. All of the damaged, bullet ridden and burnt-out cars from the one day were collected in one field.

The flag of Israel is displayed in so many different ways. The building is Ben Gurion’s home in Tel Aviv.

All over Israel are public displays memorializing the events of October 7 and expressing public opinion through art. These pictures were taken in three places: (1) at Hostage Square outside the Tel Aviv Art Museum, a main gathering spot for visitors, family members of hostages, and speakers; (2) on Diezengoff Blvd. Where passersby see the reminders of the situation while going about their days; and (3) at the site of the Nova Music festival where 368 people were murdered.

The stores have created window displays and products to honor the hostages, honor the memory of those who have lost their lives, and support Israel.

Bomb shelters are more readily noted by signs on the streets or on the phone. Depending on your location in Israel, you’ll have between 15 and 90 seconds to get to a designated bomb shelter if the sirens go off.

All over Israel there are places to volunteer to help the soldiers or people evacuated from their home in the south or north. This photo was a small volunteer station located in the basement of a synagogue packing supplies for soldiers.