Jewish National Fund Asks Police to Prevent Sukkot Celebrations at Nova Festival Site

The Jewish National Fund (JNF) has appealed to the Israel Police and the Fire and Rescue Services to prevent any Sukkot celebrations from taking place at the site of the Nova music festival in the Re'im forest, where Hamas terrorists massacred attendees on October 7th. JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrovsky stated that holding festivities at the site of the massacre would be disrespectful to the sanctity of the place and to Judaism.

The memorial site for the Nova festival victims has become a pilgrimage destination for many bereaved families, with some considering it more significant than a cemetery. Last year, Sukkot celebrations were held at the site, and images of people dancing and camping there deeply offended the families of those killed. Dassi Aviad, mother of a victim, emphasized that while she wants the site to be visited, it should be done with reverence, not as a campsite.

Omri Rahum, brother of a victim, recounted being horrified last year by videos of people holding feasts and dancing at the site, leaving behind significant mess. He described the site as akin to a cemetery and Auschwitz for the families, whose lives were irrevocably changed on Sukkot.

JNF CEO Ilan Shohat formally requested Police Commissioner Danny Levi and Southern District Commander Haim Bublil to prevent organized gatherings and activities, including overnight stays, fires, and barbecues, citing potential public, safety, and emotional repercussions. The JNF aims to preserve the site's national and Zionist significance and prevent damage to its delicate representation.

The police stated they would coordinate with relevant authorities to maintain public safety and order. Fire and Rescue Services confirmed no event permits have been requested for the Nova site beyond the annual October 7th commemoration, and they would examine any future requests individually. They also affirmed their opposition to unapproved events and will conduct patrols during the holiday.