What’s it about
On Thursday evening, students from Kibbutz Be’eri gathered at Kibbutz Tze’elim in the Negev for a deeply emotional bar and bat mitzvah ceremony. The event was dedicated to Liel and Yanai Hetzroni, twin siblings who were tragically murdered by Hamas terrorists on October 7.
Why it matters
This ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of the community even amid unspeakable tragedy. Kibbutz Be’eri, which lost 101 members in the October 7 massacre, demonstrated its unwavering commitment to honoring the memories of those who were lost, including the beloved Hetzroni twins.
The details
Speaking at the ceremony, class representatives expressed the heartrending shift from anticipation to mourning: “Nine months ago, we were just another class in Be’eri, looking forward to celebrating our bar and bat mitzvah year. Everything we had planned shattered.”
Honoring the fallen
Liel and Yanai were born to Shira Hetzroni, who suffered a debilitating brain injury post-childbirth, making it impossible for her to care for them. Their grandfather Avia and aunt Ayala lovingly stepped in, raising the twins with the communal support of Be’eri. Tragically, they too were killed on October 7.
In addition to Liel and Yanai, the ceremony honored senior youth team members killed in the massacre—Lior Tarshansky, Carmel Bachar, and Alon Even. Participants created fire-lit inscriptions with the names of the fallen, a touching tribute to their enduring legacy.
Resilience in remembrance
“Despite the crisis, pain, and moments when we thought we had no chance, we tried again to make this year the best it could be,” said class representatives. The students remained steadfast, continuing their activities and keeping the memory of their lost friends alive, feeling the absence of Liel, Yanai, Lior, Alon, and Carmel in every endeavor.
A parent’s perspective
Dan Algaranti, who lost his father-in-law Yoram Bar-Sinai in the massacre, reflected on the duality of their existence. “Despite everything, we are still a little bit happy. We are very sad, even when we are very happy. Today, we are happy and very sad, and somehow, despite everything, we are still a little bit happy.”
The ceremony was a testament to the indomitable spirit of the community and their resolve to honor and remember their loved ones, despite the immense challenges and sorrows they face.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.