May 14, 2025 | By DoD News Desk
For the second time since the outbreak of the war, Israeli President Isaac Herzog and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Kibbutz Be’eri on Wednesday, May 14. The visit is part of President Steinmeier’s official state visit to Israel, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The visit focused on the rebuilding of the Be’eri Gallery, which was completely destroyed during the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023. The German government has played a key role in funding the gallery’s reconstruction, a symbol of cultural resilience and international solidarity.
The day began with a private meeting between the two presidents, kibbutz leaders, and residents — including survivors of the October 7 massacre. A commemorative ceremony was held at the original site of the gallery, where the rebuilding plans were unveiled. The visit concluded with the planting of a tree by the presidents, symbolizing renewal and hope.
President Herzog highlighted the emotional and symbolic weight of the visit. “Eighty years after the Holocaust and sixty years after establishing ties with Germany, we now stand amid the ashes of October 7 — and we are choosing life. Kibbutz Be’eri is a beacon of courage and resilience. Rebuilding this gallery is not only about restoring a building, but restoring the spirit of humanity. May this place, and this region, flourish in peace.”
President Steinmeier, reflecting on his first visit to Be’eri shortly after the attack, recalled scenes of destruction and suffering. “The horror we witnessed here stays with us. Yet we also saw strength—the determination to rebuild. Today we return to honor your courage and reaffirm our support. Sadly, not all hostages have returned, and war continues. But Germany will not forget them. We will keep raising our voice until every hostage is home.”
He emphasized that the rebuilt gallery serves as a clear statement: “Violence can destroy walls, but it cannot defeat values. The new Be’eri will carry pain, but also hope, and this story is far from over.”
Gal Cohen, Secretary of Kibbutz Be’eri, expressed deep gratitude. “President Steinmeier, your visit right after the attack and your continued support mean the world to us. The generous contribution from the German people shows that even after tragedy, we can still create and rebuild. We also thank President Herzog and First Lady Michal for their unwavering support, especially Michal’s commitment to the gallery’s revival.”
The visit underlined the enduring friendship between Israel and Germany and the shared belief in healing through action, memory, and culture.
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