Taiwan’s Representative to Israel, Ya-ping (Abby) Lee, delivered an emotional speech at ZAKA’s annual “True Heroes” appreciation conference, held on Tuesday before an audience of thousands of the organization’s volunteers. During the event, the ambassador announced a dedicated contribution of 500,000 NIS (NT$5.14 million) used to purchase life-saving operational equipment for ZAKA.
Immediate Response Since October 7#
Ambassador Lee emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to Israel since the outbreak of the war. “Taiwan was among the first to strongly condemn the terrorist attacks on October 7, and provided humanitarian aid and financial assistance to support kibbutzim, communities, and local authorities that were affected by the attacks and the threats that followed them,” she said.
The 500,000 NIS contribution was used to purchase life-saving operational equipment. “We are particularly proud to contribute to initiatives led by ZAKA and are pleased to see our contribution transformed into equipment of real value on the ground,” she added.
Equipment Proven at Beit Shemesh#
On Sunday, March 1, an Iranian ballistic missile struck the Beit Shemesh area, killing nine people and injuring over 40. ZAKA volunteers who arrived at the scene used portable lighting towers purchased with the Taiwanese donation. The equipment enabled operational work under complex conditions and during nighttime hours, including searching for trapped individuals in the rubble.
The Beit Shemesh attack was the deadliest in the escalation with Iran. The missile penetrated Israel’s multi-layered air defense systems and struck a residential structure, causing a partial building collapse, destroying a synagogue, and severely damaging a public shelter beneath it.
Shared Values of Small Democracies#
Ambassador Lee conveyed a message of solidarity that went beyond the financial contribution. “Our contribution is more than financial assistance. It is a message of hope and solidarity to those affected by the war,” she said. “Taiwan and Israel may be geographically distant, but we are neighbors in our values — small democracies under constant external threat that continue to thrive and stand by one another.”
Her words received a standing ovation from the thousands of ZAKA volunteers in attendance.
This donation is part of a series of solidarity measures by Taiwan toward Israel since October 7, including a 1.8 million NIS contribution to establish a satellite emergency communication system, 187,000 NIS to support demobilized soldiers from the Druze community, the establishment of a maritime resilience farm to rehabilitate Gaza envelope residents, and a 1.2 million NIS donation to victims of the Israel-Iran war.
Source: Taiwan News
