Israel Daily News Special Report: Devastating Attack on Druze Town Majdal Shams

In a devastating attack on Saturday, July 27th, a rocket launched by Hezbollah struck the northern Druze town of Majdal Shams in Israel, killing 12 innocent children and injuring 44 others. The rocket hit a soccer field during a game, leading to chaos and heartbreak in this tight-knit community. This attack marks the deadliest Hezbollah assault on northern Israel since hostilities escalated in October.

Israel Daily News host Shanna Fuld joined a large group of foreign journalists in Majdal Shams to witness the aftermath of the attack and speak with community members. The rocket, identified as Iranian-made, landed just outside the shelter the children were running toward after the sirens sounded at 6:18 PM. Despite the alerts, the warning was too brief for many to find safety. Israeli officials have unequivocally blamed Hezbollah for the attack, although the group initially took responsibility and later denied it.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, cutting short his U.S. visit, vowed a significant response, calling the attack an act of brutality. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant outlined potential retaliatory actions against Hezbollah, following a security assessment with top military and intelligence officials.

During her visit, Fuld spoke with Majdal Shams Mayor Dolan Abu Saleh, community members, and families affected by the tragedy. Mayor Saleh emphasized the need for state assistance to repair the soccer field and provide services to those affected. He highlighted the profound loss felt by the town’s 14,000 residents, who are all closely connected.

Amir Abu Sala, who was on the field with his sister’s two children during the attack, shared his harrowing experience. Despite the tragedy, the community remains united in their desire for peace.

The Druze Community: A Closer Look

Majdal Shams is the largest city in the Golan Heights and is a pivotal location given its strategic importance. The city is and has been a safe haven for the Druze community who have shown remarkable resilience and dedication. The men from this unusual and persecuted minority are today serving in the Israeli army – often in combat roles. Their Arab-language skills and their Arab look are an asset to the IDF when dealing with enemy terrorists. 

Many Druze live in northern Israel, particularly in the Golan Heights, which became Israeli territory after the 1967 war. Known for their loyalty and patriotism, Druze men often serve in the Israeli army, utilizing their language skills and familiarity with the region.

The Druze community values their traditions while integrating into Israeli society through military service and prominent roles in fields like medicine. Despite their isolationist tendencies, they strive to contribute positively to their country.

Escalating Tensions and International Implications

Hezbollah’s continued aggression has led to over 3,800 rockets, projectiles, and suicide drones being fired into Israel, causing significant damage, including the destruction of one-third of Israel’s agricultural land. The attacks have also led to rising prices for fruits and vegetables.

During her reporting, Fuld experienced firsthand the ongoing threat, as rocket sirens sounded in nearby areas. The attack came in response to an Israeli strike on a Hezbollah stronghold in Beirut, targeting and killing Fuad Shukr, Hezbollah’s most senior military commander.

In retaliation, Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel, killing Nir Pupko, a 28-year-old Israeli man, and causing fires and injuries in the northern Galilee area. Local leaders criticized the Israeli government’s response to the attacks, demanding stronger action against Hezbollah.

As tensions remain high, the people of Majdal Shams and Israel continue to call for peace and unity in the face of adversity. 

Click here to listen to the voices of the Druze community in the Israel Daily News Podcast special report.