Story perspectives

Herzog Marks 85th Farhud Anniversary, Survivors' Testimonies

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Isaac Herzog marked the 85th anniversary of the 1941 Farhud at President’s Residence, displaying 80 portraits of survivors by Rona Olshevsky.
Documentary producer David Kahtan, whose father survived the Farhud, is recording survivor testimonies for his series before they die.
Survivors said some Muslim neighbors defended Jewish families while others joined the violence, leading historians to view the Farhud as the turning point that spurred a 1950s exodus.

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Story summary

President Isaac Herzog marked the 85th anniversary of the 1941 Farhud at President’s Residence, displaying 80 portraits of survivors by Rona Olshevsky.
Documentary producer David Kahtan, whose father survived the Farhud, is recording survivor testimonies for his series before they die.
Survivors said some Muslim neighbors defended Jewish families while others joined the violence, leading historians to view the Farhud as the turning point that spurred a 1950s exodus.