Concert by United Hatzalah Generates Funds for Soldiers’ Protective Equipment

On Sunday night, United Hatzalah hosted its annual concert at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem, raising vital funds for protective gear for Israeli soldiers on the front lines. The event, headlined by popular artists Ishay Ribo, Gad Elbaz, and Shmuel, drew 3,000 attendees and aimed to provide bulletproof vests and other essential gear to soldiers stationed in Gaza and Lebanon.

The concert, which coincided with the holiday of Sukkot, struck a powerful balance between celebration and somber reflection on the hostages still held captive and the ongoing conflict. As United Hatzalah volunteers work year-round to save lives, the evening underscored the urgent need for equipment to protect both IDF soldiers and first responders.

Ishay Ribo, who performed at the event, expressed his honor in supporting the cause. “United Hatzalah volunteers are on a mission throughout the year to save other people. It’s a big privilege to take part in an event like this in order to allow them to continue saving more people,” he said.

Throughout the night, volunteers who had risked their lives to save others during the October 7 terror attacks in southern Israel were honored for their bravery. Their stories brought the need for protective gear into sharp focus, showcasing the risks faced by those on the front lines.

Shmuel, another performer, highlighted the importance of giving back to United Hatzalah: “United Hatzalah gives so much throughout the year in the moments when we need help the most. I wanted to give back what I could to this organization that’s so important to the Jewish people and beyond.”

In a touching moment, the concert also featured a performance by M., a special forces reservist who gained recognition for his masked videos singing after the October 7 attacks.

The evening closed with a powerful performance by Gad Elbaz, who reflected on the emotional weight of performing just two days before Simchat Torah. “Performing for United Hatzalah two days before Simchat Torah, a day that now symbolizes a mix of darkness and light, is extremely significant,” Elbaz said. “It’s a huge privilege to take part in an event during which so many Jews from around the world can feel what the organization’s volunteers have done on that day.”

The concert also attracted notable support from around the world. Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather sent a message announcing his donation of 100 bulletproof vests for United Hatzalah volunteers, adding to the significant number of pledges made throughout the evening.

Eli Beer, president of United Hatzalah, expressed his gratitude to the attendees and donors, emphasizing the power of unity in difficult times. “Thank you for being here tonight and for your support. Your presence shows that even in difficult times, we can find strength in unity. Let’s continue to stand together for our soldiers, our volunteers, and our community,” Beer said.

The sold-out concert was not just a fundraiser but a testament to the strength of community and the commitment to supporting those on the front lines in Israel’s ongoing struggle for security.

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