After Fatal Nightclub Blaze, Israel Sends Medical Delegation to North Macedonia

In a powerful gesture of solidarity, Israel has dispatched a specialized medical delegation to North Macedonia following a tragic nightclub fire that claimed the lives of at least 59 people and left dozens more injured. The move underscores Israel’s commitment to providing humanitarian assistance around the globe, especially in times of urgent need.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced the deployment on Sunday after extending heartfelt condolences to North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Timčo Mucunski. “Israel stands by North Macedonia in this difficult time,” Sa’ar stated, reinforcing the deep ties of friendship between the two nations.

The Israeli delegation, sent from Sheba Medical Center, includes a team of experienced doctors, nurses, and burn and orthopedic specialists. Alongside them, Israel’s non-resident ambassador to North Macedonia, Simona Frankel, is accompanying the team to offer support on the ground.

Frankel highlighted the mission’s importance: “Israel stands with the Macedonian people in these difficult moments following the nightclub fire disaster. Our medical delegation will do its utmost to assist local medical teams in treating the injured and alleviating the heavy strain on the local healthcare system.”

The fire, which erupted during a hip-hop concert at a packed nightclub in Kocani, is the deadliest incident North Macedonia has witnessed in years. State prosecutors revealed that the venue was dangerously ill-equipped, lacking basic safety features like fire extinguishers, sprinklers, and accessible emergency exits. The sole exit was an improvised, locked metal door without an internal handle contributing to the tragedy as hundreds scrambled to escape the blaze.

The Israeli team will remain in North Macedonia as long as needed, providing vital medical expertise to help care for the victims and assist overwhelmed local hospitals.

Israel’s swift response not only showcases its world-class medical capabilities but also its unwavering commitment to offering aid wherever tragedy strikes. It is a reminder of the values Israel upholds: compassion, action, and a readiness to extend a helping hand to those in need.

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