Queens, NY–Following high-level diplomatic meetings in Washington, DC, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz made a meaningful visit to the Rebbe’s Ohel in Queens on Saturday night, accompanied by prominent leaders from the Bukharian Jewish community, as initially reported by collive.com.
The visit came at the conclusion of Minister Katz’s significant diplomatic mission to the United States, where he held crucial meetings with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other top American defense officials amid Israel’s ongoing military operations.
Bukharian Leadership Present
Minister Katz was accompanied by distinguished members of the Bukharian Jewish community, including Chagit Leviev Sofiev, President of the Bukharian Congress of the USA and Canada and daughter of Lev Leviev, President of the World Bukharian Jewish Congress. Also present were Gabriel Sofiev, Vice President of the Bukharian Congress, and Rabbi Zalman Zvulonov and Rabbi Yitzchak Wolowik, who serve as Shluchim to the Bukharian Jewish community in America.
At the holy resting place, Minister Katz offered heartfelt prayers for the success of the Jewish people and IDF soldiers in the ongoing conflict, as well as for the safe return of hostages and missing individuals.
A Moment of Spiritual Significance
Chagit Leviev Sofiev shared her reflections on the visit through her Instagram account, writing: «Saturday night at the Ohel, accompanying Israel’s Defense Minister @katz_israel for a special moment of prayer in this holy place. He carries the heavy responsibility of protecting Israel against its enemies and leading its defense through recent military operations. May Hashem give him the wisdom and strength to do what’s right for our country and its people. And may all our prayers get answered!»
Her words captured the gravity of the moment and the weight of responsibility carried by Israel’s defense leadership during wartime.
The visit continues a longstanding tradition among Israeli officials seeking spiritual guidance at crucial junctures in the nation’s history. The participation of Bukharian Congress leadership alongside Minister Katz reflects the growing influence and engagement of the Bukharian Jewish diaspora in supporting Israel during times of crisis.
As Minister Katz returns to Israel to continue his defense responsibilities, the prayers offered at the Ohel carry with them the hopes of Jewish communities from Queens to Jerusalem for peace, protection, and the swift return of those still held captive.