Tel Aviv event gives lone soldiers respite amid ongoing war

Fifty lone soldiers serving in Israel were given a rare break from the pressures of war at a special event hosted in Tel Aviv by Jewish philanthropist Brandon Korff.

The soldiers, all supported by the Michael Levin Lone Soldier Centre, were invited to an exclusive Friday afternoon gathering at Cantina restaurant, which was closed to the public for the occasion.

Guests were treated to food, drinks and live entertainment, with a DJ leading celebrations that saw soldiers dancing together despite the ongoing conflict. At one point, a siren interrupted proceedings, but the event resumed shortly afterwards, with the atmosphere remaining upbeat.

Korff joined the soldiers on the dance floor before being presented with a certificate of appreciation from the Lone Soldier Centre in recognition of his continued support. During the event, attendees were also told that Korff’s brother had previously served as a lone soldier.

Tzachi Dabush, director of the Brandon Korff Foundation in Israel, said: “For us, lone soldiers are superheroes. They are among the very best of our sons and daughters, who left everything behind and came to fight for the State of Israel.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to host them and thank the Michael Levin Lone Soldier Centre for the partnership that made it possible to give these soldiers a bit of respite and bring a wide smile to their faces.”

Drorit Nitzani, president of the Michael Levin Lone Soldier Centre, added: “To see the soldiers happy, enjoying themselves, and feeling embraced during a difficult time – that is what our work is all about.”

The Lone Soldier Centre, founded in memory of Michael Levin, supports thousands of young men and women serving in the Israel Defence Forces without immediate family in the country. Over the past 15 years, it has assisted more than 15,000 lone soldiers, offering guidance, housing and long-term support during and after their service.