JCRC Mourns Tragic Losses at Israel’s Mount Meron

May 3, 2021

Minneapolis, MN – Steve Hunegs, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC), issued the following statement:

“The JCRC mourns the horrific loss of 45 lives in the disaster at Mount Meron during the Lag B’Omer festival. We send sorrowful condolences and prayers for recovery to all of the victims and their loved ones. As we mourn the six Americans killed in the disaster, we remain grateful for the safety and survival of Jewish Minnesotans who participated in the pilgrimage.

“We extend our deepest appreciation to the first responders who rescued as many individuals as they could. Amidst so much pain and trauma, we were heartened to read reports of nearby Arab villages offering aid to survivors, as well as messages of solidarity and offers of assistance from world leaders, including President Biden.

“Lastly, we hope a proper investigation provides transparency and accountability to prevent such a disaster from happening again.”

Photo: Israeli rescue forces and police at a mass fatality scene during a gathering for the Jewish holiday of Lag B’Omer on Mt. Meron, in northern Israel, on April 30, 2021. (David Cohen/Flash90 via Times of Israel)

###

As the public affairs voice of the Jewish community, the JCRC fights antisemitism and prejudice, advocates for Israel, provides Holocaust education, promotes tolerance and social justice, and builds bridges across the Jewish and broader communities.