At a retreat perched above the Dead Sea, some 40 young Israeli victims of terror gathered to confront the trauma that has defined their lives since October 7.

The two-day resilience retreat, sponsored by ICEJ-UK, was designed for young adults whose lives had been overturned by terror. For some, it was the first time they had left their homes or spoken openly about their experiences.

Leah, 25, says, “I’ve been to several retreats since October 7, and this was the most life-changing and helpful. I came because I realised I could not continue on my own anymore and found that others felt that way as well. Volunteer therapists gave practical tools such as writing, thankfulness, and other workshops to help us cope.”

The retreat is not a temporary escape; it is a lifeline for young Israelis navigating the aftermath of October 7. Through shared experiences, creativity, practical tools, and compassionate guidance, participants are discovering that healing is possible, even amid unimaginable loss. In the face of trauma, courage, resilience, and human connection light the path forward.