Israeli ZAKA Volunteers Rescue Mother’s Body and Recite Psalms Amid Venezuela Earthquake Ruins

Ten days after a devastating earthquake struck Venezuela, killing nearly 3,000 people and leaving around 41,000 missing, Israeli rescue volunteers from ZAKA are operating on the ground as part of an international relief effort. Among the approximately 30,000 rescuers worldwide, the Israeli team, led by South America commander Yosef Garmon, undertook a challenging recovery mission in a structurally dangerous site where others refused to enter.

A local man, whose mother’s body was trapped under the rubble, pleaded with the Israeli volunteers for help after all other rescue groups declined due to the hazardous conditions and strong odors. The man, a Christian who hoped to bring his mother closer to God, had dreamed of Jewish rescuers coming to aid him. Upon seeing the volunteers wearing kippahs, he felt his dream had come true.

Following the successful recovery of the mother’s body, the volunteers and the family held an impromptu ceremony at the disaster site, reading Psalm 121 together. The man recognized the words "The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in," sang along, and was moved to tears. Although ZAKA volunteers typically avoid documenting sensitive moments, the man insisted on filming the event to share the story and express his gratitude, saying, "I must let people know what Israel is."

This poignant episode highlights the ongoing humanitarian efforts amid the widespread destruction caused by the earthquake in Venezuela, underscoring the emotional and spiritual support provided alongside physical rescue operations.