Yael Shevach: The story of the gold bracelet that survived the fire in Samaria

A month after her home in the settlement of Havat Gilad in Judea and Samaria was completely destroyed in a severe fire, terror widow Yael Shevach shared a moving story about the item that survived the flames. Among all the belongings in the house that burned down, an antique gold bracelet inherited from her grandmother remained intact. The piece of jewelry, which accompanied Shevach at every festive event, was surprisingly preserved and did not melt in the fire.

After the destruction, Shevach wondered how her most prominent gold jewelry managed to survive the blaze. Consequently, she turned to the 'Eran Jewelry' laboratory in Karnei Shomron, fearing it might be a different material. The laboratory confirmed that it was exceptionally high-quality gold and promised to work to restore the bracelet to its original state.

This morning, Shevach was happy to receive news that the restoration work was completed and the bracelet is ready to be worn again. Shevach noted with emotion that this is the only object that remained intact from her home, which gives new value and deep meaning to the antique bracelet and the family lineage that accompanied it over the years.

As recalled, the fire broke out on the afternoon of Saturday, July 18, in the area of the Mitzpe Yishai neighborhood in Kedumim, and under the cover of strong winds, it spread rapidly towards Havat Gilad. Within a short time, the flames reached the first line of houses, and due to the immediate danger, a decision was made to fully evacuate the settlement. 41 firefighting and rescue teams operated at the scene, with the assistance of IDF forces, the police, volunteers, and aerial support. During the firefighting operations, five people were injured, including two firefighters.

The extent of the damage became clear after the fire was brought under control: 15 houses were completely burned, about 10 additional houses were partially damaged, and in total, 24 houses were damaged and 113 people were left homeless. Industrial buildings, including a garage and a lumber warehouse, were also damaged by the fire.