New York City is set to host a major gala on Monday at the Plaza Hotel to honor Dr. Ira Savetsky, a top plastic surgeon from the city, for his free medical work during the Israel-Hamas war. The event, organized by American Friends of Soroka, aims to raise $50 million to rebuild Soroka University Medical Center in Beersheba after a damaging Iranian missile strike in June 2025.
Event Highlights and Goals
The gala comes at a critical time for Soroka, the main hospital serving southern Israel and areas near Gaza. It has treated thousands of patients since the Israel-Hamas war started on October 7, 2023, including soldiers and civilians hurt in battles.
Organizers expect hundreds of guests, including donors and medical experts, to join the evening. The focus will be on stories of recovery and the hospital’s role in tough times.
Prof. Shlomi Codish, the hospital’s director-general, shared that the event will spotlight urgent needs. He noted that the missile strike wrecked key parts of the facility, and rebuilding is vital for ongoing care.
Attendees will hear from survivors and staff, making the night both inspiring and a call for support.
Dr. Ira Savetsky’s Key Contributions
Dr. Ira Savetsky, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York, gets the spotlight for his volunteer efforts. He provided pro bono trauma reconstruction surgeries at Soroka during the Israel-Hamas war, helping many victims heal from severe injuries.
His work extends beyond Israel. In the US, he has offered free services to survivors of antisemitic attacks, drawing praise from community leaders.
Savetsky’s skills in reconstructive surgery have made a real difference. He spent weeks at the hospital in 2024, operating on patients amid ongoing conflicts.
Colleagues describe him as dedicated and skilled, often working long hours without pay to aid those in need.
This honor recognizes his commitment, and he plans to speak at the gala about the importance of medical aid in war zones.
His story ties into broader efforts to support hospitals facing violence, showing how individual actions can impact many lives.
Impact of the Iranian Missile Strike
In June 2025, during a 12-day clash between Israel and Iran, a missile directly hit Soroka’s surgical ward. This attack injured over 80 people and destroyed eight operating rooms plus six research labs.
The strike forced the hospital to close to new patients temporarily and clear out wards for safety. It treated minor injuries from the blast, but the damage halted normal operations.
Israel called the hit deliberate, while Iran claimed it targeted military sites. Global groups like the World Medical Association condemned the attack as a war crime.
Repairs started quickly, with staff showing great resilience. One doctor recalled the ceiling collapsing but praised the team’s fast response.
The event highlighted risks to civilian sites in conflicts, sparking calls for better protection of medical facilities worldwide.
Major Fundraising and Donations
Soroka has seen strong support since the strike. The Israeli government pledged NIS 360 million, about $109 million, for a new armored building.
Canadian-Israeli philanthropist Sylvan Adams matched with $100 million, the largest gift to the hospital ever.
Other big donors stepped up too:
- The Koum Family Foundation gave $50 million for a secure hospitalization tower.
- The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust added $15 million for long-term projects.
These funds help, but the gala seeks another $50 million for immediate fixes like a new intensive care unit and renovated departments.
Codish expects the full rebuild to take six years, blending short-term aid with lasting improvements.
| Donor | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Israeli Government | NIS 360 million ($109 million) | New armored hospitalization building |
| Sylvan Adams | $100 million | Rebuild and modernize facilities |
| Koum Family Foundation | $50 million | Secure hospitalization tower |
| Helmsley Charitable Trust | $15 million | Long-term building projects |
Looking Ahead for Soroka
The hospital plans to emerge stronger, with fortified structures to withstand future threats. This includes advanced tech for patient care and research.
Community backing, from local events to global donations, fuels the recovery. Recent social media posts show widespread support, with people sharing stories of miracles during the strike.
As conflicts continue in the region, Soroka remains a lifeline for thousands. The gala could inspire more giving, ensuring the center keeps saving lives.
What do you think about these efforts? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to support similar causes.
