Israeli Aid Mission Expands Earthquake Relief Efforts in Venezuela

The Israeli aid delegation sent to Venezuela to assist with rescue operations following devastating earthquakes is broadening its scope to include developing a national recovery plan for the hardest-hit areas. This expansion comes at the request of the Venezuelan government. Alongside dozens of personnel working on the ground, an additional team of about 20 Israeli experts is operating from Israel to analyze the situation and help formulate the reconstruction strategy.

The mission has received significant recognition within Venezuela, including praise from Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez, who commended the Israeli team for their high level of training and professionalism. She acknowledged the role of the local Jewish community and Rabbi Cohen in facilitating coordination between the Israeli government and Venezuela. The team has already begun implementing protocols to assess infrastructure damage and identify survivors or casualties beneath the rubble prior to reconstruction efforts.

Baruch Nidam, head of ZAKA's international division, emphasized the organization's commitment to providing aid worldwide regardless of religion or nationality. Official Venezuelan figures report over 2,954 fatalities and approximately 41,000 missing persons due to the earthquakes. Around 30,000 rescuers from various countries, including the Israeli delegation and ZAKA teams, are currently involved in relief operations.

A poignant story from the field was shared by ZAKA South America commander Yosef Garmon, recounting how Israeli volunteers entered a hazardous site to recover the body of a local woman after other groups refused to enter. The woman's son, a Christian, had dreamed of Jewish rescuers coming to help and was moved to tears when he saw the Israeli volunteers wearing kippahs. An impromptu ceremony was held at the site where Psalms were recited, providing comfort to the grieving family. The son insisted on documenting the moment to highlight Israel's humanitarian efforts.

The Israeli mission continues its critical work amid ongoing rescue and recovery challenges in Venezuela.