We've recently been informed by the IDF's Homefront Command that Netanya came in first in national emergency preparedness. We never thought we'd have to put that to practice so soon. It was hard for me to hear the news about the explosion and about the victims, not just as mayor, but even as a girl who grew up near Kikar Atzmaut [Independence Square]. It is the city's main square. Thousands of tourists flock to it, mostly from France, but from other countries too. Seventy languages are spoken at the Square. Netanya is charecterized by residents who welcome others with warmth. I remember that in the six terrible years of attacks during the Second Intifadah, the brave few tourists who visited Netanya were surprised to see smiles on the faces of Netanya's residents. Netanyans are to be praised. I'm proud of them, especially during times of crisis. Their willingness to help anyone in need is worthy of praise. We could see this again over the weekend - when many residents and hoteliers pitched in to help. I was emboldened by a phone call from Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu right after news of the disaster broke. Netanyahu offered to put all the resources of the government at our disposal to help the residents affected by the blast. I want to send my condolences to the families of the deceased: to the family of Muhammed Abu Atta, who was to be married soon, and to the families of the three young girls, new immigrants from France, who were actively involved in the activities of Chabad Netanya. Our hearts are with the families in this most difficult hour. We've dealt with terrible tragedies in the past, and we'll know how to deal with this one and to return life back to its normal path as quickly as possible. We'll support the injured and do everything in our power to reduce their pain and suffering. I want to wish a speedy recovery to the wounded and to thank all those who helped absorb the residents who had nowhere to go. Nobody is going to stop Netanya's song and the song of Kikar Atzmaut. We will repair the damaged square and make her even more beautiful than she was. The writer is Mayor of Netanya
'We'll support the injured and fix the damage'
מערכת ישראל היום
מערכת "ישראל היום“ מפיקה ומעדכנת תכנים חדשותיים, מבזקים ופרשנויות לאורך כל שעות היממה. התוכן נערך בקפדנות, נבדק עובדתית ומוגש לציבור מתוך האמונה שהקוראים ראויים לעיתונות טובה יותר - אמינה, אובייקטיבית ועניינית.
