Orphaned Nova survivor Eliav Abdous celebrates his bar mitzvah

Eliav Abdous, the eldest son of Gal and Naji Abdous, marked his bar mitzvah on Thursday in an event organized by the One Family organization. His parents were murdered in the October 7 Nova music festival massacre after leaving a family holiday meal and dropping their children off with their grandparents. They tried to flee the area but were killed by terrorists, leaving Eliav and his brother Rafael orphaned.

The family said the day combined great joy with deep longing for the parents, whose story has become one of the painful symbols of October 7. Eliav, who grew up in Kiryat Ekron, was celebrated with family, friends and One Family staff around him. He was described as a sociable, curious teenager with a big heart who loves soccer, ATVs, PlayStation and spending time with relatives and friends.

The bar mitzvah service was held with great sensitivity, blending the coming-of-age celebration with remembrance and grief. For the family and those supporting him, it was a moment that showed how life continues, children grow up, and hope can be rebuilt even after severe loss.

Earlier this year, Eliav spoke at the Israel Prize ceremony honoring Shantal Belzberg, the founder of One Family. In that speech, he described his journey since losing his parents and moved the audience by giving voice to children and teens coping with bereavement while choosing to keep living.

Belzberg said, "Eliav's journey is a testament to strength, courage and the choice of life. He is inspiring not only because of what he has been through, but because of who he is." She added that everyone is proud of him and hopes he will continue to grow, believe in himself and achieve every dream ahead of him. One Family, founded 25 years ago, supports bereaved and injured families and has expanded its work since October 7 to reach every affected family with emotional, personal, group, psychological and financial help.