Summary
Tali Hadad, a kindergarten teacher and mother of six, emerged as a hero during the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on her hometown of Ofakim, Israel. In the face of gunfire and chaos, she made life-or-death decisions to rescue her wounded son and other civilians, ultimately saving 13 lives while navigating a war zone.
On that fateful morning, Hadad awoke to alarms and gunfire, realizing her family was in immediate danger. As her son, Itamar, a soldier, rushed to confront the terrorists, Hadad instinctively followed him, witnessing the horrors unfolding around her. After successfully evacuating Itamar and others to safety, she returned to the scene multiple times to rescue more victims, all while under constant threat. The community of Ofakim, which suffered devastating losses during the attack, has since begun to heal, but the psychological scars remain deep. Hadad’s story highlights the extraordinary courage displayed by ordinary individuals in times of crisis, as well as the ongoing struggles faced by survivors in the aftermath of violence.
The Attack on Ofakim
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise assault on Ofakim, a small city located just 15 miles from the Gaza border. The attack resulted in the deaths of 47 residents, with many others wounded. This day has since been marked as a turning point for the community, which is now referred to as Rechov Ha’Mavet, or “Death Street.”
Tali Hadad’s Heroism
Hadad’s actions during the attack exemplify extraordinary bravery. After retrieving her wounded son from the battlefield, she made the critical decision to return and help others, despite the risks. Over several trips, she managed to save 13 people, demonstrating a profound sense of duty and courage in the face of danger.
The Aftermath
In the wake of the attack, Ofakim is undergoing a process of rebuilding and healing. Community efforts include constructing memorials and establishing mental health support services for survivors. Hadad, who has not returned to work since the incident, continues to care for her son and support her family, with five of her children currently serving in the Israeli Defense Forces. The trauma of that day remains a significant burden for many, but Hadad’s story serves as a testament to resilience and the human spirit in times of crisis.
Oct. 7 / New York Post / Focuses on the broader theme of ordinary citizens stepping up during crisis, providing a collective view of heroism. While informative, it doesn't delve deeply into Hadad's personal story, making it feel less intimate than the other pieces. “ SOUTHERN ISRAEL — Tali Hadad is a 49-year-old mother of six and a kindergarten teacher whose days would normally be spent teaching basic reading, math and...
Oct. 7 / Fox News / Highlights Tali Hadad's remarkable bravery amid chaos, offering a gripping narrative that immerses readers in the harrowing realities of the October 7 attack. The detailed account emphasizes her life-saving actions, making it a compelling read. Efrat Lachter's authoritative voice as a seasoned war correspondent lends credibility, providing a nuanced perspective on the psychological aftermath for survivors. “ Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. SOUTHERN ISRAEL - Tali Hadad is a 49-year-old mother of six and a...
Oct. 7 / Fox News / Reiterates Hadad's heroism with a similar narrative, yet lacks distinctive insights or fresh details compared to other coverage. The writing is clear, but it feels repetitive, offering little new context about the community's ongoing struggles. “ Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. SOUTHERN ISRAEL - Tali Hadad is a 49-year-old mother of six and a...