From Dr. Benninger:

“As you know, these are not easy days here in Israel, and we are deeply grateful to have America by our side. We also hope that the current situation will ultimately lead to the long, peaceful times that everyone here is longing for.

Tel Aviv and Petach Tikvah - where Rabin Medical Center is located - have been subjected to repeated rocket attacks from Iran and Hezbollah. The attacks come at all hours, including at night particularly exhausting for families with young children who must rush to shelters (like my two boys and daughter). Much of the city feels deserted; residents have either relocated to the countryside or remain indoors, a stark contrast to the vibrant street life Tel Aviv is known for. I am fortunate to have the routine of work, and still cycle to the hospital every day.

Despite these conditions, Israel’s Rabin Medical Center continues to operate with remarkable resilience. The upper floors of the hospital have been evacuated, and the neurology ward is half empty: patients who cannot be easily moved have been relocated to underground level -4, while others must transfer to protected zones during attacks. All elective programs (including the epilepsy surgery program we had been actively advancing) have been put on hold indefinitely, which is a significant setback to our clinical mission.

Dr. Erez Birnbaum, Director of Rabin Medical Center, recently addressed the entire staff with an update that captures the spirit of the institution. Since the onset of hostilities, the hospital has treated over 144 wounded with full dedication. Surgical activity has actually been expanded, with successful kidney and heart transplants performed even during active conflict, and births continue to bring light in the darkest of times. The hospital’s telemedicine platform has been scaled up to ensure continuity of care for patients unable to visit in person. Seventy-three staff members have been called to military reserve duty, and to support those who remain, the hospital now provides overnight childcare for employees’ children.

Dr. Birnbaum closed his message with words that resonated deeply:
“The fact that you show up day after day and give your best for the patients is anything but taken for granted. This exemplary commitment strengthens the mutual responsibility between us and the cohesion of our hospitals as one united team.”

We remain committed to our clinical and research mission. While the current circumstances have forced painful compromises, the dedication of our teams has not wavered.

We are hopeful for calmer days ahead and deeply appreciate the solidarity and support of our American colleagues at the American Friends of Rabin Medical Center.”