Tamar Cohen Reflects on Gilad Farm Fire and Community Support from Across Israel
One month after a devastating fire destroyed 15 homes and businesses at Gilad Farm, Tamar Cohen shared her experience in an interview with Dr. Hannah Katan on Channel 7. Cohen recounted the moment of destruction, the loss of the family business which was uninsured, and the overwhelming support from thousands of Israelis. She described how Gilad Farm was built from scratch by early families, including hers, who faced many hardships and public criticism but eventually created a thriving community with dozens of small businesses.
Cohen recalled the shock of the fire that swept through the settlement on a Saturday, uprooting lives and destroying years of work. Miraculously, there were no casualties, but the community was soon hit again by the murder of Benny Ouman in a terror attack, leaving behind a widow and orphans. The loss of the uninsured family business was particularly painful, but Cohen found hope in her sister’s words: "The people of Israel are the best insurance in the world." This phrase became her guiding light as she witnessed nationwide solidarity through donations of money, supplies, and emotional support.
The interview also explored the spiritual dimension of the tragedy, which occurred during the period of Bein HaMetzarim, a time of mourning in Jewish tradition. Cohen spoke about the deep sense of destruction and the unique expression of unconditional love from the entire nation, which she sees as a form of spiritual repair. She cited Rabbi Nachman of Breslov’s teaching on transforming brokenness into connection with God, emphasizing that despite the pain, faith can foster growth.
Cohen views the fire not only as a personal loss but as part of a broader national process amid ongoing conflict, highlighting the urgent need for unity among Israelis. She expressed determination to rebuild not just physical structures but also a renewed foundation of faith, mutual responsibility, and collective identity as one people. From the early days after the fire, she prayed for new life to emerge from the ruins, hoping to see a greater light shine through the brokenness.
