Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas War, Operation Hug, a humanitarian initiative created by Nefesh B’Nefesh, Friends of the IDF (FIDF), and Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA), continues to play a vital role in reuniting families with their loved ones serving as lone soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Since its launch in 2023, the program has facilitated over 1,200 reunions between lone soldiers and their parents, who have traveled from 64 countries to Israel.
The initiative, aimed at easing the emotional and logistical challenges faced by soldiers who made aliyah to Israel and now serve in combat units, provides a round-trip airline ticket for one parent of each lone soldier, offering families the chance to reunite during this challenging time. The extension of Operation Hug will focus on parents who have not seen their children for more than a year and have not yet participated in the program. To help cover the costs, parents will be asked to contribute a small amount toward the airfare.
A Vital Support System for Lone Soldiers
“Operation Hug is an initiative that speaks to the heart of our mission at FIDF,” said Steve Weil, CEO of FIDF. “Lone soldiers make the extraordinary decision to leave everything behind to serve and defend the Jewish homeland, standing on the front lines without family by their side. It is our sacred responsibility to ensure these selfless heroes—and their families—receive the support they need.”
The emotional toll on both the soldiers and their families has been particularly significant as the conflict rages on, with many parents facing the heart-wrenching reality of having their children on the front lines of war while being unable to physically support them. The reunions facilitated by Operation Hug provide a moment of solace, offering these soldiers the emotional reinforcement of family as they serve their country.
Impact of the Initiative
Deborah Riegel, chair of the Nefesh B’Nefesh Task Force at JNF-USA, emphasized the emotional weight of the initiative. “Operation Hug embodies the very soul of what Jewish National Fund-USA stands for — ensuring that every individual who defends our homeland feels the figurative embrace of a grateful people and, more importantly, the literal embrace of family,” Riegel said.
Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, co-founder and executive director of Nefesh B’Nefesh, shared his reflections on the initiative’s profound impact. “Reuniting these brave soldiers with their parents has been an incredibly moving experience for us,” he said. “Since the start of Iron Swords, we have witnessed the profound impact of a simple hug, reminding these young heroes that they are never truly alone.”
Expanding the Program
The continued success and emotional importance of Operation Hug have led to its extension, ensuring that even more families can benefit from the program. The initiative highlights the deep commitment of the organizations involved to support lone soldiers and their families throughout their service and beyond, not only during times of peace but especially in times of war.
As the Israel-Hamas War continues, Operation Hug remains a beacon of hope for families separated by distance and conflict, reaffirming the importance of community support and family connections during times of immense challenge.
