Inside the Financial Recovery of Kibbutz Be’eri Following Devastating Attack

In an extensive report by Aaron Poris for The Media Line, the arduous task of quantifying the damage inflicted on Kibbutz Be’eri during the October 7 attack is detailed. This kibbutz, severely hit during the incursion by Hamas, witnessed the kidnapping and murder of numerous residents, including children and a beloved peace activist, Vivian Silver. The article describes the horrors of the assault where over 130 people were killed, many exhibiting signs of torture.

The kibbutz’s physical and emotional scars are profound. Half of its buildings were destroyed, with damages estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The community, now living away from Be’eri, relies heavily on their accounting department for financial sustenance. However, the department suffered significant losses with the chief accountant kidnapped and others murdered.

Retired accountant Mark Linton, a friend of one of the victims, has been instrumental in the recovery efforts. Tasked with reconstructing the accounting department and deciphering the financial chaos, Linton faces challenges in recalculating budgets and salaries. The task, he predicts, will take years, compounded by lost records and a decimated workforce.

The community remains determined to rebuild, with plans to relocate temporarily while reconstruction occurs. Despite the uncertainty surrounding government funding, the resolve to return to Be’eri is strong, with less than 1% of the community unwilling to come back.

To delve deeper into this heart-wrenching story of resilience and recovery, readers are encouraged to visit The Media Line’s website for Aaron Poris’s full article.