Over 500 people attended Israel’s 9/11 Ceremony hosted by Jewish National Fund-USA and KKL-JNF, in partnership with the Embassy of the United States in Israel on Monday, September 11. The moving event, broadcast globally on social media, took place at the organization’s Living Memorial located in the foothills of Jerusalem. The site is the only 9/11 memorial outside of the United States that lists all the victims who perished during the horrific attacks.
Notable attendees included: United States Embassy, Jerusalem Chargé d’Affaires, Stephanie L. Hallett; Members of the United States Marine Corps; Jewish National Fund-USA Representative, Yoel Rosby; KKL-JNF Vice Chairman, David Yaari; Israeli Fire and Rescue Authority Commissioner, Eyal Caspi; Commander of the Israeli Police’s Central District, Avi Biton; as well as 53 U.S. Police Officers, and 200 students from the Alexander Muss High School in Israel.
Also in attendance were the families of the victims of the attacks, Nefesh B’Nefesh representatives and U.S. airline officials.
Jerusalem Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie L. Hallett remarked: “In the face of adversity, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to building bridges, nurturing compassion and upholding the ideals that bind us as human beings. Together, we can transform tragedy into a force for positive change, ensuring that the legacy of September 11 is one of tenacity, unity and hope.”
Held annually, the ceremony and monument serve as a timeless reminder of the shared values and mutual solidarity between Israel and the United States.
Jewish National Fund-USA representative Yoel Rosby said: “As I look upon the audience today and see the students from the Alexander Muss High School, it becomes evident that it is our duty to advocate tirelessly for the message that hate will never triumph, and love will always prevail. For over 122 years, Jewish National Fund-USA has been building, growing, and promoting this message.”
The 9/11 Living Memorial is also surrounded by thousands of trees, symbolizing life, hope and renewal.
David Yaari, KKL-JNF vice chairman and chairman of Kol Israel, the General Zionist party, added: “Today, KKL-JNF commemorates a tragic day not just for the victims and the United States but for Israel and Jewish people around the world who stand with the U.S. and our shared values of democracy and freedom in the fight against extremism and terror.”
In addition to the annual 9/11 event held in Jerusalem, Jewish National Fund-USA honored the deep and enduring relationship between Israel and the United States through local commemorations held across the country. The events served as an opportunity to recognize first responders and security professionals, with many held at firehouses, police stations, schools and synagogues.