One Year Since the Majdal Shams Tragedy

Yesterday marked one year since the devastating missile attack on July 27, 2024, in which 12 children and teens were killed by Hezbollah while playing on their neighborhood soccer field in Majdal Shams. The tragedy shook the Druze community and the entire country. Among those killed were three beloved participants of Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed (NOAL), Dror Israel’s associated youth movement: 11-year-olds Alma Ayman Fakhr al-Din and Finis Adham Safadi, and 13-year-old John Wadeea Ibrahim.

Portraits of the twelve children and teens who were killed while playing on their neighborhood soccer field.

On this painful anniversary, Dror Israel and NOAL stood in solidarity with the community, participating in a powerful memorial ceremony held next to the field where the attack took place. Surrounded by families, friends, and community members, we honored the memories of the twelve young lives lost.

 NOAL participants from Druze branches gathered to remember their friends and loved ones lost in the tragedy.

Over the past year, Dror Israel and NOAL have worked closely with Druze community leaders to support the long and difficult healing process. NOAL's Druze branches throughout the Golan Heights became safe and supportive spaces for youth, offering weekly emotional and therapeutic activities. Teens found strength in community as they gathered for drama and art-based sessions, day trips, leadership hikes, and a therapeutic soccer program. Through these experiences, the branches were transformed into spaces of resilience, reflection, and hope. All of this was made possible thanks to the vital support and partnership of UJA – The Federation of New York, whose solidarity enabled us to respond quickly and meaningfully.

Looking ahead, Dror Israel and NOAL will continue supporting the Druze community by training young leaders, launching a therapeutic theater group, and continuing the soccer program into its second year.

This anniversary comes at a time of renewed grief for the Druze community, following the horrific massacre in Sweida. In the shadow of these tragedies, the ceremony concluded with the release of a dove carrying an olive branch, a symbol of hope and the enduring human spirit, even in the face of profound loss.

We will always carry the memory of the twelve children and teens in our hearts and remain committed to standing with the community of Majdal Shams, now and always.

Majdal Shams teens stand together on the very field where, one year ago, their lives were forever changed.