Before answering their nation's call for reserve duty to serve in Operation Swords of Iron, two young Israelis made a choice to solidify their bond in an unexpected wedding ceremony.
Among the many Israelis summoned for emergency reserve duty were Elinor Yosefin and Uri Mintzer. The young couple, previously traveling in Thailand, swiftly returned to Israel. Before they could report to their respective units and face an uncertain future, they chose to wed.
The impromptu ceremony was officiated by Tzohar’s Rabbi David Stav and attended solely by the couple’s immediate family and a few more to complete the minyan.
Hope to celebrate a full-fledged wedding
“I've envisioned this moment countless times, but never like this," Mintzer, the groom shared. "My hope remains that we can celebrate with a full-fledged wedding in the near future. I'm fortunate to have fallen in love with my best friend; she represents my past, present, and future.”
Since Hamas' Saturday invasion of southern Israel, there are at least 900 Israelis dead and more than 2,500 wounded Israelis.
“It's rare for a couple to wed on the brink of heading to war," Stav said. "This union showcases the resilience of their relationship and their deep love for each other, their homeland, and the Jewish nation. Our heartfelt prayer is for the home they establish to provide them shelter for countless years. Although this ceremony was intimate, we yearn and hope that upon their safe return, we can celebrate their union amidst a grand gathering of friends and family.”