The Wrapped in Love exhibition, featuring a new collection of photographs dedicated to the residents of the Gaza enclave and the northern border, was inaugurated Monday at the departures hall of Ben Gurion Airport.
"For six months now, the settlements in the south and the North have only been mentioned in the context of war," Airport Director Udi Bar-Oz said during the exhibition's opening ceremony.
"From today, each of the tens of thousands of travelers passing through Ben Gurion Airport, our almost exclusive gateway in Israel, will remember the communities as they were before October 7, and will pray to see them lively again soon, bustling with people, rich community life, culture, industry, agriculture, tourism, nature, and the joy of life."
The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of northern and southern authorities, Ben Gurion Airport management, and the Israel Airport Authority.
"I am proud of the residents of the north in general, and the residents of Kiryat Shmona in particular, who have been dealing with this distorted reality imposed on us for half a year now," said Avichai Stern the Mayor of Kiryat Shmona.
"We are strong and capable of facing any challenge until the looming threat beyond the border is removed. Every year during this period, the north is filled with travelers and tourists who come to admire the beauty of this land. Unfortunately, this is not possible today. I thank the management of Ben Gurion Airport for showcasing the beauty, strength, and ongoing activity, even these days, in the north of the country, and hope for the day when tourists will return to us."
Yossi Keren, Head of the Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council, said, "From that cursed day, we hold onto life and try to recover. I have no doubt that we will succeed and hear the laughter of children running in the fields. Every event is filled with joy and sadness, but we can fulfill our mission. We hope for the return of the captives every minute. The exhibition, at the gates of the State of Israel, shows our beautiful side and is very important to us. Thank you."
Alon Davidi, Mayor of Sderot, added: "Pain is abundant. Harsh images are seen everywhere. The memories from October 7 do not fade away. Choosing to place images of action, tourism, and an important community at the entrance to Israel is significant for us. We need security, for the hostages to return safely and quickly. May we always overcome the bitter enemy and change the equation. With the rise of a comprehensive security ring that will include the Galilee and the Gaza envelope."