European MPs Witness Hamas’ Impact in Israel, Pledge Action
A group of European parliamentarians recently toured areas in Israel devastated by Hamas attacks, gaining an eye-opening perspective on the conflict’s reality. Croatian, German, Italian, and Lithuanian MPs, many visiting Israel for the first time, embarked on a journey that brought them face-to-face with the aftermath of the ongoing strife. They traveled by bus to Israel’s southern border, witnessing the tragic consequences of the violence.
The tour began with a briefing from an Israeli military officer and a visit to the military morgue at the Shura Army Base near Ramla, where they saw the wrapped remains of unidentified attack victims. At the Sderot Observation Center, the delegation watched a chilling film captured by Hamas terrorists during their incursion into the city, which included graphic scenes of civilian shootings.
Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld briefed the group on the severity of the situation, highlighting the drastic reduction in Sderot’s population from over 30,000 to just 2,000 due to safety concerns. Italian MP Mauro Del Barba expressed his newfound understanding of the conflict’s gravity, acknowledging the scale of Hamas’ operations.
The tour continued to the car cemetery near the Re’im music festival site, showcasing the destruction of vehicles caught in the attacks. During their visit, a siren sounded, forcing the group to take cover—a stark reminder of the daily threats faced by residents in these regions.
In Kibbutz Kfar Aza, the group encountered the poignant ruins of a once-thriving community. Israel Lander, a long-term resident, recounted the horrific events of October 7, when 63 inhabitants were brutally murdered. His narrative brought to life the stark reality of the situation, echoing through the remnants of destroyed homes.
Elnet, an organization fostering European-Israeli relations, facilitated this tour. Yossi Abravanel, the deputy executive director, emphasized the importance of such visits in shaping European leaders’ perceptions and policies towards Israel. The tour’s impact was evident in the reactions of the MPs, who recognized the need for a decisive stance against Hamas’ aggression.
For a comprehensive account of this impactful visit and further insights from the European parliamentarians, visit The Media Line’s website.
