Sixty-seven years before the Hamas massacre, Nahal Oz witnessed a different kind of tragedy. In 1956, Sudanese soldiers from the Egyptian army attacked the kibbutz. Roi Rotberg, a kibbutz member and security officer, was killed. He was shot off his horse. His body was dragged into Gaza. This is just one chapter in the story of Nahal Oz.
Nahal Oz, founded in 1951, was the first Nahal settlement. Nahal is an acronym. It stands for Noar Halutzi Lohem meaning Fighting Pioneer Youth. Initially, the kibbutz was called Nahlayim Mul Aza. That translates to Nahal soldiers across from Gaza. By 1953, Nahal Oz became a civilian community. Throughout its history, it faced attacks. These attacks came from Palestinian and non-Palestinian guerrilla organizations. Most originated from the Gaza area.
Security issues became a constant concern for Nahal Oz. Rockets and border penetrations were frequent threats. This history has given Nahal Oz a special place in Israeli mythology. It is deeply etched in the Israeli consciousness.
The events of October 7, are not the first time Nahal Oz has faced immense hardship. In the wake of Roi Rotberg’s killing, Moshe Dayan visited the kibbutz. Dayan was the Israeli Chief of Staff at the time. He delivered the funeral oration for Roi Rotberg. Dayan’s eulogy is now considered a defining speech of Zionism and Israeli history.
Dayan spoke of the need for constant vigilance. He understood the hostility of those surrounding them. He said that the settlers in Nahal Oz carry the heavy gates of Gaza on their shoulders. He emphasized the need to be armed and ready. Only then could they plant a tree or build a house.
Unit 414 of the Combat Intelligence was housed in Kibbutz Nahal Oz before October 7. Their mission was to conduct reconnaissance on the Gaza border. They operated remote-controlled gun turrets on the Iron Wall. Field observers analyzed video. Cameras positioned along the border fences provided the video. On October 7, soldiers opened fire on Hamas invaders. They killed many. However, Hamas overran the base. Many soldiers were killed. Some were taken captive. Among them were 13 female field observers.
Today, the members of Kibbutz Nahal Oz who survived the Hamas attack are refugees. They are refugees in their own country. Eighty percent were evacuated to Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmek. It is located in northern Israel near Haifa. Many criticize the Israeli government. They feel it failed to protect them. They are conflicted about the future. Should they return to Nahal Oz? Many wish to return. But only with assurances of safety.
One surviving member shared a sentiment. The government did not cry for them. This member wants to return. But only if the government changes. Otherwise, they will leave the country.
Moshe Dayan’s eulogy for Roi Rotberg remains relevant today. He urged Israel to examine its soul. He called for probing the national mindset. Unlike many, Dayan understood and respected Arab hostility. Yet, neither Dayan nor any other leader has brought peace to Gaza. The story of Nahal Oz is one of resilience. It is a story of loss and a constant struggle for peace. It stands as a reminder of the challenges faced by those living on the border.