Parents voice concerns about Israel summer tours

By Talia Samuelson

Two Israel summer tour groups have been redirected and “amendments” have been made to the schedules of others. 

UJIA, which supports 13 youth movement tours, also confirmed that two teenagers have been withdrawn by concerned parents. With some tours already having left for Israel, the organisation has moved to reassure parents.

David Goldberg, director of fundraising and communications, reassured tour-goers that a “robust infrastructure” was in place, “supporting all aspects of Israel tour, including health and safety”.

He added: “All activities are subject to daily approval by Cheder Matsav, Israel’s situation room.” Two groups due to tour Sderot will no longer visit following updated advice.

Parents have voiced concern. One told the Jewish News that mothers and fathers had been calling the FZY hotline “in a panic demanding to know what the plan was”.

Samantha Jacobs, whose son is going on the RSY-Netzer trip, admitted to “being a bit jittery’.