As part of its ongoing commitment to rehabilitating Israel’s northern forests, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) held a tree-planting ceremony in Biriya Forest, marking a significant step in the “KKL-JNF for Tomorrow” initiative.
Led by KKL-JNF chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski, the Feb. 4 event brought together national and local leaders, military officials, members of the Israel Defense Forces, firefighters, students and residents united in their shared mission to restore the land and strengthen the north.
During the ceremony, cedar trees—strong and resilient species suited to the Galilee’s climate—were planted, symbolizing both environmental restoration and the unwavering spirit of Israel’s northern communities.
The event was attended by senior figures from the IDF Northern Command and the Fire and Rescue Services, including Brig. Gen. Sagiv Dahan, Chief of Staff of the Northern Command, and Deputy Fire Commissioner Ehud Ben Ezra, alongside station commanders from the Northern District. Soldiers from the Northern Command also took part in the planting, reinforcing the deep connection between security, resilience, and the land itself.
Local and municipal leaders were also present, including Moshe Davidovitch, chairman of the Confrontation Line Forum and Head of the Mateh Asher Regional Council; and Safed Mayor Yossi Kakon; as well as mayors and council heads from Metula, Jish (Gush Halav), Beit Jann and Katzrin. The event also welcomed the CEO of the Druze Heritage Center, further highlighting the shared commitment of diverse communities to the future of the region.
Young voices played a key role in the day’s events, with pre-military leadership academy students from Kfar HaNasi and high school students from AMIT Safed actively participating in the planting efforts—a powerful symbol of a new generation dedicated to growth, renewal and the future of the land.
“This is more than a ceremony; it is a declaration of resilience, faith and Zionism,” stated KKL-JNF chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski. “The forest, damaged by fire, will regrow—just like the people of the north, who will not be broken or uprooted from their land. These trees are not just a symbol; they are a promise for a green and thriving future, for strengthening our communities and for keeping the spirit of this land alive. Over the past year, a new chapter of heroism has been written in Israel’s story, and the unwavering strength of northern residents will be told for generations to come.”
Moshe Davidovitch, chairman of the Confrontation Line Forum and head of the Mateh Asher Regional Council, emphasized the significance of this act: “After more than a year of war in the north, planting a tree here today is a small act with immense meaning. We are sending a clear message to the world: We are here to stay! We are restoring life to this land, rebuilding our homes and communities, and shaping our future. I extend my gratitude to KKL-JNF for its critical role in this renewal and to all those contributing to the rehabilitation of our region.”
This partnership, he added, “is proof that our resilience is not just a slogan—it is our reality. We will keep planting, keep building and keep living, because we have no other land.”