What it’s about

In a devastating incident, five Breslov Hasidim from Safed, Israel, lost their lives in a tragic car accident near the city of Ouarzazate, Morocco. All five passengers, including individuals with families, perished when their vehicle lost control and overturned.

Why it matters

This heart-wrenching event highlights the impact of road safety conditions in international settings on Israeli citizens. For the community of Safed and the broader Israeli public, the incident solemnly underlines the potential dangers that travelers may face abroad. It also serves as a stark reminder of the resilient global Jewish community’s connectedness through expertise and support, irrespective of geographical distance. Safed Mayor Yossi Kakkon, driving collaborative efforts, expressed deep sorrow while closely consulting with the Israeli Foreign Ministry and local authorities to address the calamity.

Immediate action and support

Demonstrating prompt crisis response and dedication, ZAKA’s international unit, guided by Deputy Director General Haim Weingarten, acted swiftly in liaison with Moroccan entities. Their commitment to rapid identification and repatriation efforts has been vital in supporting the bereaved families in this difficult period, working towards the dignified return and burial of the victims in Israel.

Broader implications

The car accident coincides with unsettling statistics released by Morocco’s General Directorate for National Security. In one reported week from November 25 to December 1, road accidents claimed 16 lives within urban regions, bringing attention to ongoing concerns about road safety in Morocco. This raises the importance of reviewing and potentially increasing road safety measures to protect all road users, including international visitors.

This ongoing incident reflects a collective hope within the Israeli community for effective assistance for the grieving families and enhanced road safety awareness globally.

This story was first published on jpost.com.