South African Brothers' Heroic Efforts Save Thousands on October 7

On October 7, 2023, as Israel faced its deadliest day in history, two brothers from South Africa, Brett and Keith Isaacson, stood as unlikely heroes. Their brave actions in the face of overwhelming danger saved thousands of lives, turning them into symbols of courage and resilience during one of Israel’s darkest moments.

Brett, 54, and Keith, 58, made aliyah with their families in 1975 and quickly adapted to their new lives in Israel, working on a kibbutz in the south and serving in the IDF. The events of October 7, however, would change their lives forever.

“It was the worst day since the beginning of the state of Israel. It has been the hardest time of my life,” Keith shared with the Jewish Report. The day started like any other, with Keith out looking for workers to assist him on the moshav. But when the first missiles struck, it was clear that this day would be anything but ordinary.

As a reserve member of the Givati Brigade, Keith immediately called his commander and swapped his truck for a bulletproof white Toyota. His quick thinking allowed him to evade Hamas terrorists for a time, as his vehicle resembled those used by the attackers. However, once they realized he was Israeli, they opened fire. Keith managed to reach the Eshkol Municipality offices, where he spent the next three days coordinating with the IDF, the Ministry of Defense, the Homefront Command, and the police to manage the situation in the region.

Meanwhile, his brother Brett found himself in a battle for survival at the Mivtahim Junction. With minimal ammunition and no immediate support from the IDF, Brett and a small group of defenders held their ground against hundreds of terrorists. For four hours, they fought to prevent the attackers from reaching the kibbutzim, knowing that countless lives depended on their success.

Although the terrorists eventually managed to invade the kibbutzim from another direction, Brett’s stand at the junction delayed their advance, buying precious time for many to find safety. His actions were critical in a day that saw unimaginable loss and devastation.

“More than 216 people in my Eshkol region, including the communities of Kibbutzim Be’eri and Nir Oz, were killed, 160 were injured, 30 were orphaned, more than 300 houses were destroyed and burnt,” Keith recounted. “Sixteen of my communities out of 32 were attacked that day, 33 of my reservists were killed, and many dozens were taken hostage and still remain in Gaza. It’s difficult to comprehend.”

The Isaacson brothers’ bravery in the face of overwhelming odds is a testament to the indomitable spirit that has defined Israel since its founding. Their actions on October 7 not only saved lives but also embodied the resilience and courage that continue to inspire the nation.

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