For the Third Time, Jewish Farmers Promise to Restore Gaza Border Farm

In 1984, a group of Torah-observant Jewish families founded Netzarim in the barren sand dunes of the Gaza Strip. Motivated by their faith and commitment to fulfilling the biblical commandment to settle the Land of Israel, they transformed the desert into a thriving agricultural hub. Greenhouses sprouted with yams, cherry tomatoes, mangos, and etrogim, alongside a multi-million-dollar farming empire that became a cornerstone of Israel’s vegetable supply and the world’s largest producer of kosher produce.

Tragically, the 2005 Gaza Disengagement uprooted the residents of Netzarim and other farming towns in Gush Katif. Despite their hopes of fostering peace, their advanced greenhouses were looted or turned into staging grounds for attacks, and the farmers were left with nothing. Undeterred, the expelled families relocated to the sandy dunes of Chalutza near the Gaza-Egypt border and began anew, founding Bnei Netzarim, Neveh, and Shlomit.

By 2008, these resilient farmers established the Yeshuot Chalutza farms. Overcoming years of hardships including living in caravans they turned 120 acres of desolate land into a flourishing agricultural enterprise. Their produce nourished thousands of Israeli schoolchildren through contracts with the Ministry of Education, while their Torah institutions earned national recognition for academic excellence.

On October 7, the farmers faced yet another devastating blow during Hamas’s invasion of Israel. Miraculously, no lives were lost in Chalutza, but 97% of the Yeshuot Chalutza farms’ produce was destroyed, along with nearly all of their costly farming equipment. Despite owing millions of shekels to banks for this equipment, government compensation has been minimal, leaving the farmers impoverished.

Yet, the farmers refuse to surrender. Their presence on the Gaza border is not only vital for Israel’s food supply but also for its security. During the October attack, their steadfastness on the front line slowed terrorists, saving countless lives in the interior.

The farmers of Bnei Netzarim are now preparing to rebuild for a third time. “With faith in G-d and commitment to His Torah,” they vow to overcome these challenges as they have before, ensuring the land is not abandoned and that Israeli children continue to be nourished by their produce.

Their unwavering dedication embodies the spirit of resilience that defines Israel. Despite their tribulations, these farmers are determined to restore their farms, protect Israel’s borders, and continue their mission to sustain the Jewish state.

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