The Mystical City of Netivot: A Perspective on the Conflict

The Mystical City of Netivot

The southern Israeli city of Netivot, known as a working-class hub for mystical rabbis, is situated about 10 miles from the Gaza border. During the Hamas-led attack on October 7, Netivot miraculously escaped the worst of the violence, a fortunate event that many residents attribute to divine intervention by the Jewish sages buried in the city.

Perspective on the Conflict

Despite the proximity to Gaza and the ongoing conflict, residents of Netivot seem to display a lack of concern for the suffering of Palestinian civilians living just across the border. Michael Zigdon, a local business owner who previously employed workers from Gaza, voiced a sentiment shared by many in the city.

Michael Zigdon: “Who wants this war and who doesn’t? It wasn’t us who attacked them on Oct. 7.”

Mr. Zigdon, like numerous Israelis, holds Hamas responsible for using residential areas as shields, putting innocent civilians in danger. The blurred line between Hamas fighters and the general population often leads to a collective blame mentality among some Israelis.

Personal Account

Michael Zigdon, pictured serving customers in his restaurant in Netivot, expressed his views on the conflict and the complexities surrounding the situation.

Credit: Avishag Shaar-Yashuv for The New York Times