The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic deaths of Nir and Noa Baranes, a beloved couple from the Golan Heights, who were killed by a Hezbollah rocket strike on July 9, 2024. Nir and Noa, both 46, were driving near their home in Kibbutz Ortal when their car was directly hit by a rocket. They leave behind three children, aged 13, 16, and 18.
The NJA extends its heartfelt condolences to the Baranes family and the entire Kibbutz Ortal community. In a statement, the Golan Regional Council described Nir and Noa as “central and beloved members of the kibbutz,” emphasising the profound loss felt by their community.
Despite the gravity of this incident, it is alarming to note the selective outrage of the UK media. While quick to condemn Israel and propagate misleading narratives, the same media outlets remain conspicuously silent when innocent Israeli civilians are targeted and killed by Islamist terrorists. The tragic deaths of Nir and Noa Baranes, along with the 28 other victims of attacks from Lebanon during the ongoing war in Gaza, have largely gone unreported, except by Jewish community media outlets.
Laurence Julius, Vice Chairman of the NJA, stated, “It is deeply troubling that the UK media chooses to ignore the suffering of innocent Israeli civilians like Nir and Noa Baranes. This selective reporting not only fails to acknowledge the human cost of these attacks but also perpetuates a biased narrative against Israel. We call on the media to uphold its duty to report news impartially and to recognise the tragedies faced by all victims of this conflict.”
On Tuesday, 40 rockets were fired into Israeli territory from Lebanon, causing fires in eight different locations. Hezbollah claimed the rocket that hit the Baranes’ car was intended for a nearby army base. This attack is part of a broader escalation that has seen 12 civilians among the 28 killed in strikes from Lebanon since the war in Gaza began.
The NJA remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Jewish community and advocating for fair and accurate media representation. The organisation promises to continue to honour the memories of those lost and demand justice and recognition for all victims of terrorism.
