In view of the war in Gaza, and the unceasing shooting of Kassem missiles on the cities and settlements, a special meeting of Chabad in Israel was held. At this meeting it was decided by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Aronov to increase the wide-ranging Chanuka activities during the remaining two days of Chanuka to bring the illumination and joy of the Chanukah throughout the country, especially to the towns and cities living under missile threats. The estimate is that the Palestinians can shoot 200 rockets and bombs a day.
Special Chabad units are going out until the end of the holiday, to encourage and bring happiness to the Israel Defense Forces together with the Mitzvot of Chanukah. They are armed with Menorahs and doughnuts, leaflets pertaining to the Festival of Chanuka, and of course with much joy.
On the first day of the army’s campaign in Gaza, over 50 rockets rained down over southern Israel. A resident of Sderot was killed and another person was critically wounded when a Synagogue in one of the settlements in Council Eshkol received a direct hit. Chabad representatives are with the families of the killed and injured helping them with whatever they need.
Rabbi Aronov also suggested that Shluchim all over the world dedicate the public Menorah lightings tonight to the people and soldiers of Israel. May the light of the Menorah be in good standing for our brothers and sisters in the holy land.
Chabad will be there with the soldiers and the people in the cities being effected for as long as necessary, he said.
