PROTECTING VALIANT PIONEERS
On May 29, 2001, Gilad Zar, a security officer for the Samaria Regional Council and a founder of the community of Itamar, tragically joined the long list of terror victims of the Second Intifada. That day, while driving just east of Kedumim, Arab terrorists ambushed Gilad and fired dozens of bullets in his direction, causing his vehicle to overturn. Still not content, the bloodthirsty terrorists then walked to the car and shot Gilad in the head, murdering him in cold blood.
Heartbroken but steadfast, grieving relatives and friends of Gilad resolved to establish a new community in his memory. At an open area just south of where Gilad was murdered, “Havat Gilad” was founded in 2002 with just two families living in tents. With time, other families joined, mobile homes and then permanent homes were built, but they still face serious infrastructure and security challenges. However, the valiant pioneers of Havat Gilad have never wavered and their commitment is as strong as ever.
Lacking a perimeter fence and located in proximity to a number of Arab villages as well as the Arab city of Nablus (Shechem), the residents of Havat Gilad have put their lives on the line and helped security forces fight terror in Samaria. Most recently, surveillance equipment donated by CFOIC Heartland to neighboring Kedumim, helped the IDF track and apprehend terrorists that were directly threatening Havat Gilad. However, the residents of Havat Gilad must have their own security equipment to prevent attacks by their hostile Arab neighbors.
- FOUNDED: 2002
- LOCATION: Samaria
- BIBLICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Located just southwest of Shechem and the Biblical mountains of Gerizim and Ebal
- OPULATION: 80 families
The pioneers of Havat Gilad need your help to bolster their security preparedness amidst a sea of hostile neighbors. With your support, Havat Gilad’s residents will acquire a thermal drone with enhanced surveillance capabilities, both in daytime and nighttime. Your gift will also allow them to equip their main security vehicle with new tools and a suspension kit, ensuring a speedy response to any emergency or security situation. Please protect the bold and selfless pioneering families of Havat Gilad!