A heavy Iranian missile salvo struck southern Israel on Friday, damaging the Chabad-run Ma’on Chaya daycare center and shattering the calm of its staff.
Security-camera footage shared by the nursery’s management captures the moment a projectile slammed into one of the play areas, underscoring the peril even the youngest face.
“The very thought of infants being here is unimaginable,” said Rabbi Mendy Bloy, who oversees the Colel Chabad Charities for Israel that operates Ma’on Chaya. “The Iranians are firing at babies, the elderly, children, and hospital patients alike. Nothing will deter us from continuing to live and raise our families here in Israel.”
Opened two years ago in a ceremony led by the late Chief Rabbi of the city, Rabbi Yehuda Deri, Ma’on Chaya is renowned for its fusion of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s educational philosophy with meticulously designed spaces tailored to toddlers’ developmental needs.
The centre prides itself on delivering warm, respectful care; every staff member undergoes rigorous training and ongoing workshops to ensure each child feels valued, safe, and successful.
“It’s heartbreaking to watch the footage,” one caregiver said. “But we’re determined to return as soon as possible and do what we love most – nurturing these children.”