While the renewal of areas around Gaza is to come in the 20-point peace plan agreed to by Israel and Hamas, there are signs that the war-torn region is returning to life. The Times of Israel reports that Zikim Beach, the site of a fierce battle between the IDF and Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, is set to reopen to the public this week. The popular beach has been closed since the war began.
During Hamas terror attacks on nearby military bases on October 7, 17 civilians and one IDF soldier were killed. Since then, Zikim Beach has served as a base of operations near the northern border with Gaza. The beach reopens with limited hours and activities, though surfing will be permitted. An official opening and memorial ceremony for the 18 Israelis killed there on October 7 will be held next week.
The regional council said it had worked with the Tekuma Directorate and the interior and tourism ministries to repair the damage done by the terrorists during the attack and to upgrade the facilities.
The redevelopment of the beach cost some NIS 20 million ($6 million), with NIS 6.5 million of the total coming from the Tekuma Directorate, the regional council said.
The IDF said the move was made possible “following significant operational activities” in the northern Gaza Strip area and preparations by the Southern Command and Navy.
Before the war, Zikim Beach was full of happy swimmers enjoying the sand and the crashing waves, and a place where Israelis could bask in God’s Creation. With the remaining hostages returned home, Israel can begin to heal. The Fellowship will continue to stand with the people of the Holy Land and support them as they heal, rebuild, and begin to return to normal life.
