“Everything Crashed Before Our Eyes”: Businesses Affected by Rockets Face Survival Struggles

Business Owners Left Without State Support

Many Israeli business owners are grappling with the devastating impacts of recent rocket attacks, resulting in physical and emotional trauma for countless citizens. Among them is Hillel Dvash, who operates “Haroze Or,” a jewelry supply store in Ramat Gan. Dvash’s experience reflects the plight of numerous business owners who find themselves alstart in the wake of destruction, facing severe financial repercussions without adequate assistance from the state.

A Total Loss

Dvash describes the horrifying aftermath of a rocket strike that occurred just 50 meters from his store, leading to total devastation: “The business was completely damaged. Everything is destroyed; my inventory shattered, the storefront demolished, the ceiling caved in, and the air conditioning units blown away.” This family-run business, built over 20 years, crumbled within moments. He expressed frustration at the lack of response from authorities: “I filled out the property tax forms and all that, but nobody comes; nobody contacts you. If I don’t fight for myself to reach my business to salvage something, it would be entirely open to looters,” he lamented.

A Struggle for Recovery

After a prolonged effort, including “yelling” as he recounted, Dvash eventually obtained permission to enter his store and salvage some valuable materials, such as silver and gold. However, this bureaucratic struggle adds stress to an already dire financial situation. “Clients are calling and placing orders via my website; I constantly apologize saying I can’t fulfill their requests. A customer wanting a product won’t wait for me; they will go to my competitors,” he explained.

The impact extends beyond finances to his staff, as he cannot guarantee their return to work, deepening the uncertainty for both Dvash and his employee. “I have no idea how to proceed,” Dvash added. “I just want an opportunity to begin rebuilding. I’m ready to take action immediately once I have the permission.”

Feeling Abandstartd

Dvash, a former combat soldier whose son is currently serving in the military, articulates a profound sense of abandonment: “I don’t think I deserve this; I pay taxes, I served in the military, my son serves. At the very least, provide me the chance to continue living normally.” His story is emblematic of the grim reality faced by countless business owners across the country, as those affected by the rocket attacks find themselves mired in bureaucratic challenges while losing precious time to recover.

Dvash’s message is clear: “As soon as I receive permission to start over, I will work tirelessly to restore my business.” The critical question remains whether the system will enable him and others like him to do so before it is too late