Despite the recent attacks in Hevron, thousands of Jews spent Shabbat in the city as part of an "unforgettable experience."
Chief Rabbi of Israel David Lau, who also spent Shabbat Chaye Sarah in the city where the matriarch Sarah is buried, praised the visitors, the hosts, the prayers, and the connection to the location. "People from around the world and around Israel came to speak with our forefather and foremother, and to draw strength," he said.
MK Shuli Mualem (Jewish Home) also spoke warmly of "the Shabbat of elevated spirits and true connections between all parts of the Jewish world." She acknowledged the day's attacks but noted "We are in the government and we demand the restoration of deterrence and we are still talking about building here. We need to talk about increasing the Jewish community in Hevron."
Following the attacks, Kiryat Arba local council head Malachi Levinger demanded that the Central Command to take action against terrorists. "We had a wonderful Shabbat and we hosted people from around the world. There were also difficult events during the Shabbat and I hope that the IDF and the Defense Minister take proper action to eradicate this phenomenon and that there will be an eternal Zionist answer."