Schindler Family Returns Home to Kerem Shalom After Hamas Attack

Amihai and Avital Schindler, along with their six children, have returned to their home in Kibbutz Kerem Shalom, near the Gaza border, two weeks ago, after it was extensively renovated following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The family was inside their safe room when terrorists breached their home, detonated a charge near the door, and severely injured Amihai, costing him an arm. His wife and children remained in the safe room for hours before being rescued.

The family spent a year and a half in Ramat Gan before moving to another house in the kibbutz while their original home was being rebuilt. The renovation included expanding the house, a new kitchen, flooring, furniture, and a new safe room door. They celebrated their return with a special event attended by Rabbis David Lau and Shmuel Eliyahu. Amihai Schindler, who has become a symbol of resilience, noted that while they left a wall with shrapnel as a reminder of the miracle, not destruction, the experience has led them to focus on spreading light and promoting coexistence.

The attack on Kerem Shalom began early on October 7, with multiple breaches into the kibbutz. Terrorists entered the Schindler home around 10 AM. Members of the rapid response team, including the fallen Amichai Yitzan and Yedidya Raziel, engaged the terrorists at the entrance to the Schindler home, preventing them from entering the safe room. Yair Wiesner, another rapid response team member, was injured while fighting the terrorists and was instrumental in Amihai Schindler's rescue.

Despite the trauma, the Schindlers view their experience as a catalyst for growth and positive change. They are involved in the "Iron Sisters" association, supporting the wives of wounded soldiers, and believe their story helps promote coexistence between religious and secular communities. Avital Schindler stated, "After great darkness comes great light," emphasizing the significant public, physical, and personal development they have experienced. They find strength in their faith and in the support of the community and the Israeli people.

Amihai Schindler, who previously lost his brother Avishai to terrorism 16 years prior, sees his current challenges as a continuation of a life mission. He acknowledges the difficulty of adapting to life with one arm but finds purpose in helping others and sharing his story. The family also expressed frustration with the continued flow of aid trucks into Gaza, viewing it as supplying the enemy. They remain committed to living in Kerem Shalom, seeing their return as a testament to their resilience and a refusal to be driven out.