Israeli-Smuggled Lions Relocated to South African Sanctuary for Better Future

Two lions, Ori and Ben Tzur, who were part of one of Israel's largest wildlife smuggling cases, have been successfully relocated to a new home in South Africa after a 30-hour journey. Originally five cubs named after heroes of the October 7 attacks and the "Iron Swords" war, Bibs, Ori, Arnon, Yahalom, and Anda, were rescued and raised at Hai Park in Kiryat Motzkin. Ben Tzur, found tied to a tree in a Palestinian village, joined them, forming a group of three males and three females.

The Israel Nature and Parks Authority sought a more natural refuge for some of the lions, leading to their transfer to Animal Defenders International (ADI), an organization that has rescued hundreds of wild animals over the past two decades. The lions were initially meant to be sent to a different sanctuary, but a massive fire in March forced a change in plans. ADI agreed to take them in, where they will live in a 2.5-dunam enclosure simulating the African savanna alongside 33 other lions and tigers.

Ori was named after Staff Sergeant Ori Jerbi, a fallen soldier from the Givati Brigade who died in January 2024 after saving two children. Ori’s mother, Naomi, requested the lion be named in his honor, sharing that her son loved lions and would say, "Even lions need to rest," instead of "good night." The decision to relocate Ori and Ben Tzur together was influenced by their strong bond, despite their differing personalities and backgrounds.

The lions were trained to enter transport cages without sedation to endure the long flight safely. The relocation was emotionally difficult for the caretakers and the Jerbi family, who felt a deep connection to Ori. Naomi expressed hope that the lions would now enjoy a freer, more natural life, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the animals’ welfare. The transfer marks a significant step toward providing these rescued lions with a better future in a more suitable environment.