At least 44 Israelis were killed and about 150 others were wounded in a stampede at a Jewish religious gathering in the Zionist entity’s north early Friday.
Some 150 Israelis were injured overnight, with six in critical condition, 18 in serious condition, eight in moderate condition, and 80 who were lightly injured, and over 250 of ambulances and six helicopters called to the scene to evacuate the injured, Magen David Adom (MDA) said on Friday.
The Israeli occupation military said it had dispatched medics and search and rescue teams along with helicopters to assist with a “mass casualty incident” in the area. It did not provide details on the nature of the disaster.
The incident happened late at night and there were conflicting reports on whether a grandstand did fall.
Tens of thousands of Israelis had gathered at the foot of Mount Meron to celebrate the so-called Lag BaOmer, a Jewish holiday honoring a Rabbi.
It was the first huge religious gathering of its kind to be held legally since occupation authorities lifted nearly all restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic.
Israeli Officials Remarks
Commenting on the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “A serious disaster on Mount Meron. We are all praying for the recovery of the injured. I ask to strengthen the rescue forces operating in the area.”
For his part, President Reuven Rivlin tweeted: “With great anxiety I follow the reports from Meron and pray for the healing of the wounded.”
“An unbearable disaster at the tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai,” said Yamina head Naftali Bennett. “The entire nation of Israel is united in prayer for the victims.”
“I follow with concern and pain and anxiety the terrible disaster that occurred during the celebration at Meron,” said Yesh Atid head Yair Lapid on Facebook. “The whole of Israel is now praying for the healing of the injured. This is a difficult and sad night.”
Source: Israeli media and Agencies
