Shalom!

I will be sending you an update every few days about our situation, just to let you know that we are in the picture over here and taking care of your children.
I thank all the parents that are supporting their children at this time and are being very brave by allowing their children to stay in Israel. A special thanks to parents who have sent support letters to us and all the people in Israel.
So here we go. Apparently the enemies of the Jewish people don't tire so easily.
The situation seems to have escalated in the past two days and we still do not know how or when it will end. Tel Aviv area have been told to be prepared for any even, which we hope will not be needed.
The MTA boys are in Jerusalem which happens to be the most safe place in Israel at the moment.
Tafnit are in Sde Boker in the middle of the Negev and the worst thing that can happen to them is a suntan.
MTA girls are ironically safe in Poland (some will be landing only later on tonight). They were in Alon Shevut for the pre-Poland shabbaton and sometime during the night got off from Ben Gurion.
That's all for now.
Please contact me at my mail address below for any questions.

Kol Tuv,

Rav Rafi Ostroff
Director
Year Programs Department
World Bnei Akiva

Dear Rabbi Thank you for the updates, which are well needed, even though all the media tends to exaggerate, this time they are giving the facts, Joshua has messaged us few times to let us know they are all well and safe, and am glad they are out of there at the moment, even though they were enjoying the hard work, I think its a real wake up call for theme all, and they all realise the impact it is having on them. Thank you for letting him stay as well, we appreciate it and hope all will be well in Israel, we pray for you all and go to all the solidarity marches, and tefilla groups that are going on everywhere.

Dear Rafi, Thank you very much for getting back to me so promptly. I find your answers reassuring and hope that the safety if the group is constantly being monitored and re-assessed by the programme organisers and leaders. Thank you also very much for your offer of assistance with Anya's return to NZ, if necessary. Take care, and all the best.

Shalom Rav Rafi, Thank you for your email and keeping us informed. I have the greatest confidence in Bnei Akiva and feel that my daughter D_____ is in fact privileged to experience Israel in her time of need. My son D___ is on Hadracha and he is having an amazing time. We in South Africa are all praying for the immediate return of the abducted soldiers and a quick victory over Hezbollah and there should please G-D be no more Jewish casualties. Shalom

Dear Rav Ostroff, Many thanks for the email - it is very reassuring, and helpful to me as a parent. I wish safety and peace for all Israel, and that the families of those lost be spared any further sorrow. Shabbat shalom, and thank you again