What Happened
On October 7, a group of 20 terrorists associated with Hamas carried out a raid on the Yellow convenience store near the Magen intersection in Eshkol, Southern Israel. The attackers looted the store, forcing the employees to hide in a walk-in freezer to save themselves from the armed assailants.
Why It Matters
This incident not only highlights the ongoing threats faced by Israeli civilians in areas close to the Gaza Strip but also underscores the resilience of the local community in the face of terrorism. The owner’s commitment to rebuilding after such a traumatic event sends a message of determination and hope.
The Attack
During the early hours, the Hamas terrorists broke into the store, firing gunshots and causing the employees to seek refuge in the cold confines of the freezer. The employees remained hidden for over an hour, only emerging when the terrorists departed and the Israeli army arrived.
The Aftermath
Following the initial attack, the store was further victimized by looters who took advantage of the chaos, stealing everything from the coffee machine to the Slurpee device. To conceal their actions, the perpetrators discharged a fire extinguisher before leaving, exacerbating the damage to the store.
The Response
Morris Atias, the store owner who is currently serving in the Home Front Command in Be’er Sheva, expressed his shock and distress over the attack. Despite the devastation, Atias is determined to rebuild and recover, stating that the store will come back stronger.
Community Impact
The attack not only represents a direct threat to the safety and security of Israeli civilians but also serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities in close proximity to hostile territories. The incident has rallied support from the community, reinforcing solidarity in the face of adversity.
This story was first published on ynetnews.