QUEENS, NEW YORK: It was an emotional scene at JFK Airport in Queens, New York, as families gathered at the gates to bid a tearful farewell to their loved ones, who were proudly heading off to join the fight against Hamas in Israel.
The airport was filled with heart-wrenching farewells, support, and an outpouring of unity and patriotism.
Families of the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) reservists flooded Terminal 4, coming together to support those who were leaving for the warzone, whether to fight, deliver equipment, or return home to their families.
Atmosphere of love takes over JFK Airport amid Israel-Hamas conflict
The atmosphere was one of love, unity, and an indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
Notable politicians and supporters joined the emotional crowd, dancing, singing, and embracing one another before the troops boarded their EL AL flight, which had become a lifeline for many, as it was one of the few airlines still flying in and out of Israel amidst the turmoil.
Volunteers played a vital role as a support system. They waved flags, brought food, and cheered on the young soldiers, standing united in their unwavering support for the nation during these dark times. Parents clung to their sons and daughters, knowing that the next reunion would be uncertain.
The urgency of the situation was evident in the experience of Ilai Lichtental, a 20-year-old reservist, who had received a call from his commanding officer, instructing him to leave his family and immediately report for duty.
"I'm sorry, but I have to go now," Lichtental told the New York Times. He added, "I'm excited to go back."
Lichtental's story was not unique, as the Israeli military had called up over 300,000 reservists for duty.
EL AL Airlines had to add extra flights to meet the surging demand, suspending a decades-old policy of not flying on the Jewish Sabbath, according to reports. The crowds at Terminal 4 continued to swell as the week progressed.
“I bought $8,000 worth of stuff,” said Willie Balk, 34, a rabbi from New Jersey, who loaded his Chevrolet Suburban with supplies purchased at various stores.
Young volunteers in the crowd helped passengers willing to pay extra fees to bring bags filled with supplies on board.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, efforts to assist Israel were in full swing.
"We raised money so fast that we can't process it," said Rob Rosenthal, a spokesman for the American Friends of Magen David Adom, who was organizing a chartered plane to deliver 17 new ambulances to Tel Aviv within 11 hours.
Port Authority Police officers and US Army personnel extend security at JFK Airport
To ensure everyone's safety, Port Authority Police officers in body armor and US Army personnel patrolled the airport, many of them carrying heavy rifles.
An armored personnel carrier was positioned outside, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The International Synagogue at Terminal 4 transformed into a bustling hub of support.
"We have so much stuff now, we're almost begging soldiers to take it," said the synagogue's lead rabbi, Ari Korenblit.
By late Tuesday, October 10, however, few Israeli soldiers remained in New York City. "Most of them have already left," said Rabbi Motti Seligson, a spokesman for Chabad.
One of the few soldiers who arrived at Terminal 4 on Wednesday, October 11, was Noach Nierenberg. "All over the world, parents want to hug their children right now,'" he said, adding, "So I came home to hug my parents. Now I will go back, and do what I can to help."
As Nierenberg passed through the security checkpoint, dozens of well-wishers formed a circle, dancing, clapping, and singing 'Am Yisrael Chai' (The People of Israel Live).
The camaraderie and support were palpable, with one woman even pressing a note of encouragement and a rolled-up $10 bill into his hand.
Internet wishes luck as soldiers, reservists and volunteers head to Israel
Social media was inundated with messages of support. Internet users flocked to X (formerly Twitter) to extend their support for soldiers, reservists and volunteers headed to Israel amid Hamas' surprise attack.
"God Speed," one posted. "Good luck to all of them!" another wrote. "God Bless them and protect them!!" someone else added. "Watching young men and women going off to war makes me very sad. I guess I'm officially an old man now. God speed, God protect," another offered.
