On Monday, selected senior students travelled to St Kilda Shule, joining peers from Bialik and Mount Scopus, to hear an extraordinary firsthand account from Rachel Edri and her son Evyatar about their experience during the October 7 Hamas attacks.

Rachel Edri, a 65-year-old resident of Ofakim, became a national symbol of resilience and bravery after she and her husband David were taken hostage in their home by five armed Hamas terrorists. Facing an unimaginably tense and dangerous situation, Rachel drew upon her natural warmth and courage — offering tea, Moroccan cookies, and even singing Arabic songs to their captors. Her calm presence and disarming hospitality helped de-escalate the situation, allowing rescue forces to intervene 17 hours later.

Rachel’s incredible composure and strength have been widely recognized in Israel and around the world. She has met with prominent figures including former U.S. President Joe Biden and was selected as one of the torch lighters for Israel’s 2025 Independence Day ceremony — an honour that reflects the impact of her story across Israeli society. Though the official ceremony was cancelled due to wildfires, she took part in the televised dress rehearsal.

The students listened intently to Rachel and her son Evyatar, who was part of the security forces at the scene, gaining insight not only into the events of October 7, but also into the personal courage and resilience that define so many Israelis.

As a Zionist school, we are proud to partner with WIZO, who generously sponsored this moving and important visit.

Ilan Bloch, Director of Jewish Life and Learning