Israeli Ambassador Ofra Farhi describes the attacks as a lasting wound in the country’s national memory.
By Gibson Zulu
The Israeli community in Zambia has commemorated the victims of the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks on Israel with a special screening of the film 12 Hours in October in Lusaka.
The screening, held on Thursday evening, brought together members of the Israeli and Jewish communities, Zambian government officials, diplomats, artists, students and community leaders to remember those killed in the attacks.
Speaking at the event, Israeli Ambassador to Zambia Ofra Farhi described October 7 as a day that profoundly changed the lives of many Israelis.
“October 7th is, for us, a bleeding wound in our national and personal soul—a day when the reality of an entire nation was shattered into pieces,” Farhi said.
She said this year’s commemoration carried particular emotional significance following the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Reflecting on the human cost of the attacks, Farhi recounted the story of Eli Sharabi, whose wife, Lianne, and daughters, Noya and Yahel, were killed. His brother, Yossi, also died while being held captive in Gaza.
Farhi said Sharabi’s appearance at a memorial ceremony in Tel Aviv illustrated the resilience of survivors despite the devastating losses they had suffered.
“Profound loss alongside unbeatable human resilience,” she said.
The ambassador said the film was selected to preserve the memory of the attacks and counter what she described as disinformation and attempts to distort the events of October 7.
According to Farhi, 12 Hours in October draws on personal testimonies and accounts of the attacks, incorporating original footage to document the events as they unfolded.
She urged those attending the screening to honour the victims, support survivors and ensure that their experiences are not forgotten.
“Our duty now is to remember those we’ve lost with compassion, honor the survivors, carry their pain, and ensure that their stories inspire us to prevent future tragedies,” Farhi said.
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