Photo: depositphotos.
Terrible accident claims lives of five pilgrims
On Friday, 6 December, a fatal car accident occurred near the city of Ouarzazate in Morocco, killing five pilgrims from Israel. The victims were residents of Safed who had gone on a pilgrimage to the holy sites of Morocco, in particular to the tomb of the righteous Baal Hari (Abraham Wazan).
This was reported by the Time Ukraine Israel portal, citing Vesty.
The names of the victims and their mark on the community
Among the dead: Natan Shapira, Yisrael Shasha, Moshe Galant, and the brothers Shimon and Yosef-Chaim Tfilinsky. They were fathers of large families, leaving behind 16 children. Their passing was a great loss for the Jewish community of Safed and for all of Israel.
Details of the tragedy
According to the ZAKA organisation, the car in which the pilgrims were travelling overturned for reasons that are still unknown. All passengers died on the spot. The accident occurred in a remote area, which made it difficult for rescuers to respond quickly.
The car that got into an accident: ZAKA.
Response and efforts to repatriate bodies
ZAKA volunteers are working with local authorities and the Israeli embassy to transport the bodies to Casablanca and then to Israel. According to Elhanan Roth, a representative of ZAKA, the process could last until Sunday, 8 December.
“The distance and complexity of the route created serious difficulties, but we are doing everything possible to bring the bodies home as soon as possible,” Roth said.
Grieving in the community
Ynet published the last photo of the five men taken during their visit to Rabbi Yosef Pinto in Morocco. This touching photo has become a symbol of the memory of people who have dedicated their lives to spiritual service.
Hasidim, including those who died, at Rabbi Pinto’s. Photo: Ynet.
The spiritual mission of pilgrims
Morocco is an important destination for Jewish pilgrims due to its long history and preserved holy sites. Every year, dozens of pilgrims from Israel visit the graves of the righteous and learn about the heritage of Moroccan Jews. The tragedy underscores the importance of staying safe when travelling.
Five families lost their parents and the community lost its spiritual leaders. In Tzfat and beyond, the memory of the victims was honoured, emphasising that their faith and devotion will remain alive in the hearts of those who knew them.
