“Shalom from Kyiv”: Students of a Jewish school in Ukraine sent a letter of support to their peers in Bnei Brak, Israel

Students of a Jewish school in Kyiv, which suffered from a Russian strike, sent a touching letter of support to Israeli peers whose school was damaged by an Iranian missile. This story demonstrates the unwavering friendship and resilience of the Jewish communities of Ukraine and Israel during difficult times.

“Shalom from Kyiv”: Students of a Jewish School Sent a Letter of Support to Peers in Israel

In these challenging times, when the Jewish communities of Ukraine and Israel face the trials of war and terrorism, a bright example of support and solidarity has emerged.

Students of the Kyiv Jewish boarding school “Perlina — CHABAD”, which was hit by a Russian drone in October 2024, sent a heartfelt letter of support to their peers at the Israeli school “Gsharim” (אהל שרה) in the city of Bnei Brak. The latter school was seriously damaged by an Iranian missile strike on June 16, 2025.

By the way, Ohel Sarah is a center for the education and rehabilitation of special-needs children, providing comprehensive services in education, employment, housing, and recreation for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Letter of Support — A Light of Hope Across the Distance

Details were reported by the Israeli portal Ynet (Hebrew) on July 1, 2025.

In their letter, the students from Kyiv wrote:

“We know exactly what you are going through — we also had fear, confusion, and tears. As those who have gone through the same experience, it was important for us to express support and solidarity with our brothers and sisters at the ‘Gsharim’ school. We restored our school, returned to learning and smiles. We are with you, praying for you from Kyiv and sending strong embraces of faith, hope, and love. Hold tight to each other!”

The letter was accompanied by drawings and a video that deeply moved the Israeli students and gave them strength during a difficult time. The director of the “Gsharim” school said that the students were very touched and grateful for such sincere support.

Tragedies That United Two Schools

On October 30, 2024, a Russian drone struck the “Perlina” school in Kyiv just hours before classes were to begin. The school was empty, which saved the lives of about 200 students, but the blast shattered windows and damaged nearby buildings.

Similarly, on June 16, 2025, the “Gsharim” school in Bnei Brak, Israel, was severely damaged by an Iranian missile. The strike occurred at night when no one was inside the building, which also helped avoid casualties.

Quotes from Leaders and Community Representatives

Chief Rabbi of Kyiv, Yonatan Markovich noted:

“As those who have gone through the same experience, it was important for us to express support and solidarity with our brothers and sisters at the ‘Gsharim’ school. Iran is a terrorist state spreading darkness and evil in the world. Most of the rockets hitting Kyiv are manufactured in Iran. Despite repeated attacks, we do not give up and will continue to spread the light which, with God’s help, will drive away darkness.”

He added that it is important for the children and the entire community not to succumb to fear and terror but to carry the light of hope and knowledge.

Director of “Ohel Sarah,” Malka Weinberg, shared that the students in Bnei Brak were deeply moved upon receiving the letter from Kyiv, which included drawings and a touching video.

“This mutual responsibility deeply moves us. The story of the young girls from Kyiv especially supported us and showed that with God’s help we too will return to the ruined school, restore it, and make it even better. We will not let terror defeat us.”

Words from the Kyiv Students Themselves

The girls from the “Perlina” school expressed hope that the Israeli students would soon return to their school building:

“We want to tell you that you will overcome this and return to school — to draw again, sing, hug your friends, and be with your teachers. You will have a home, even better than before. We are with you, praying for you, and sending strong embraces of faith, hope, and love. Hold on tight.”

Significance

For many Israelis with Ukrainian roots, this story is not just news but a deeply personal example of resilience and mutual support. Such acts of solidarity strengthen spiritual and cultural bonds between peoples, especially during difficult times.

Table: Key Facts About the Attacks on the Schools

On the Importance of Intercommunity Solidarity

The story of the letter, NAnews — Israel News, is a vivid example of how Jewish communities in Ukraine and Israel, despite the trials of war and destruction, maintain strong ties. They support each other and continue to build a future based on hope, mutual respect, and love.