Yael Shevah Shares Story of Gold Bracelet Surviving Devastating West Bank Fire

A month after a devastating fire completely destroyed her home in the West Bank settlement of Gilead, Yael Shevah, widow of a terror victim, revealed the remarkable survival of a gold bracelet that belonged to her grandmother. Despite the blaze consuming all other possessions, this high-quality gold bracelet remained intact. Concerned about its survival, Shevah took the bracelet to a jewelry lab in Karnei Shomron, where experts confirmed its exceptional gold purity and restored it to its original condition.

The fire broke out on July 18 in the Mitzpe Yishai neighborhood of Kedumim and quickly spread to Gilead due to strong winds. Authorities evacuated the settlement as flames approached residential areas. Firefighters, supported by the IDF, police, volunteers, and aerial assistance, battled the blaze with 41 teams on site. Five people, including two firefighters, were injured during the operation.

The aftermath revealed severe damage: 15 homes were completely destroyed, about 10 more were partially damaged, and a total of 24 homes were affected, leaving 113 residents homeless. Industrial buildings, including a garage and a wood warehouse, also suffered damage. Shevah expressed emotional relief that the bracelet, the only item to survive, now holds deep personal and familial significance as a symbol of resilience amid loss.