Israeli tourists in the village of Dharamkot in Kangra expressed concern about what was happening at home as Israeli forces continued their counteroffensive in response to Hamas’s multifaceted terrorist attacks. Due to the fact that Dharamkot is the only village in Himachal with a Jewish center, it is also referred to as “Mini Israel.” Several visitors expressed their desire to return home and assist their country in any way they can.
While the number of injured was estimated at 2,600, the death toll from Hamas terror attacks soared past 900 on Tuesday. Contrarily, more than 700 people died in the Gaza Strip as a result of Israeli forces’ retaliatory airstrikes and ground assault. Noa Levy, an Israeli tourist in the charming Himachal village, described the situation at home as “shocking” and said that although her relatives were living under the threat of Hamas terror, they were relieved she was “safe” abroad.
“The events that have unfolded in my homeland over the last fews days have left me in shock. I desperately want to go back to my family but they are happy that I am safe here in India. It’s hard to put what I am feeling in words. Earlier today, I received word that I have lost five members of my family. I have benumbed with shock and sadness. Even women and children being abducted with impunity back home,” Noa told fighting back tears.
Another Israeli tourist, Roee, said he has been making desperate efforts to head back home but has not been able to book a flight.
“The situation back home has left me devastated. We are scared for our fanilies and friends there and also can’t help feeling outraged against the Hamas terrorists. We are trying to take a flight back home so that we could join the forces, who are battling Hamas out there. We are desperately trying to book the first flight home,” he told.
