Full Breakdown
Kibbutz Be’eri Begins Demolition of Homes Following October 7 Hamas Attack
4/12/2026, 10:53:20 PM
Overview of the Demolition Process
Demolitions commenced on October 15, 2023, in the Olive neighborhood of Kibbutz Be’eri, located near the Gaza border. This area was one of the hardest hit during the Hamas invasion on October 7, which resulted in over 1,200 fatalities across southern Israel, including 102 residents of Be’eri. Additionally, thirty individuals were kidnapped from the kibbutz, all of whom have since been returned, either alive or deceased.
The decision to demolish the homes was made after extensive discussions among kibbutz members. They concluded that rebuilding the two neighborhoods, while preserving one house as a memorial, was essential for moving forward from the trauma of the attack. The house chosen to remain belongs to Yogev and Yael Dvori, who were away with their children during the assault. Its selection was influenced by the family's survival and its location, which minimizes daily reminders of the tragedy for other residents.
Emotional Impact on Residents
The first home to be demolished was that of the Gat family. Kinneret Gat was murdered next to their house, and her daughter, Carmel Gat, was abducted and later killed after 11 months in captivity. Eshel Gat, the husband of Kinneret and father of Carmel, expressed the emotional toll of the demolition, stating, “Today, I witnessed the demolition of my home, the evacuation of an entire life that was cut short by violence.” He emphasized that while the physical structure is gone, the memories remain deeply ingrained in his soul.
The Gat family also announced plans for a commemorative race on May 15, aimed at honoring the lives of Kinneret and Carmel through a celebration of life rather than a focus on loss. They stated, “We will remember and commemorate Carmel and Kinneret in ways that symbolize life and not hell.”
Broader Implications
The decision to demolish the homes in Be’eri reflects a broader desire among residents to reclaim their community and foster healing after the traumatic events of October 7. By choosing to rebuild, the kibbutz aims to transform a site of devastation into one of resilience and renewal.
Official Statements & Responses
Kibbutz members have articulated a collective sentiment that demolishing the homes is a necessary step toward healing. The community's choice to leave one house standing serves as a poignant reminder of the past while allowing residents to envision a future free from the shadows of violence.
What's Next
In addition to the planned commemorative race, the kibbutz will continue its rebuilding efforts, focusing on creating a supportive environment for residents as they navigate the aftermath of the attack. The ongoing process of demolition and reconstruction will likely serve as a focal point for community engagement and healing in the months to come.
