What It’s About

Lone soldiers who made aliyah and served during the Iron Swords War attended a healing retreat in Cyprus as part of the Wings program, offering much-needed support and reflection.

Why It Matters

This initiative underscores Israel’s commitment to supporting its lone soldiers—immigrant servicemen and women who serve in the IDF without family to lean on in the country. Retaining their resilience and dedication, these soldiers are given essential recuperation opportunities, ensuring their emotional and physical well-being.

Details

The retreat, organized by the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, the Jewish Agency, and the Merage Foundation Israel, provided these brave soldiers and their partners with a space to reflect, recuperate, and build connections after extensive duty during the Iron Swords War.

The Wings program has been instrumental in offering continuous support to these lone soldiers, reinforcing their courage and commitment by providing emotional and practical assistance throughout their military service. These young individuals who voluntarily immigrate to Israel to protect the nation now get to share life-changing experiences designed to help them process their service experiences positively.

Key Statements

Nicole Hod-Stroh, CEO of the Merage Foundation Israel, articulated the unique challenges faced by these soldiers who immigrated alone to defend Israel. She emphasized the transformative impact of the Wings program, which offers life-changing experiences such as the Cyprus retreat, participating in activities that help them process wartime experiences and reconnect with their partners.

Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer expressed deep gratitude to the supporting organizations, stating that these lone soldiers show “an extraordinary example of commitment and bravery.” Sofer applauded the critical role played by the Jewish Agency, the Merage Foundation, and the Dovik Foundation in ensuring perpetual support for these soldiers, even beyond their military service.

Bottom Line

The Wings program represents more than just a support system for lone soldiers. It serves as a lifeline from the moment these servicemen and women step into Israel, throughout their time in the IDF, and into their post-military lives. The Cyprus retreat exemplifies how Israel endeavors to provide these lone soldiers with not only practical support but also meaningful, healing experiences that fortify their morales and relationships.

This story was first published on jpost.com.