The Minister of Public Security Gilad Erdan, recently declared Zaka Search and Rescue as a “national rescue organization”. This new designation, which takes effect immediately, ensuring that, in the event of a mass casualty incident, Zaka volunteers will be considered an integral part of the emergency and rescue forces, under the direction of the relevant body in charge of the incident. This, in addition to a 2005 declaration by the-then Minister of Defense which recognized Zaka as an “aid organization in times of emergency”.

Zaka Chairman Yehuda Meshi-Zahav: “The designation by the Minister of Public Security of Zaka as a “national rescue organization” – and this in addition to the designation by the Minister of Defense of Zaka as an “aid organization in times of emergency” – serves to underline Zaka national importance in times of emergency and the recognition of the professional operational capabilities of both the organization and the volunteers.”

In his thanks to Minister Erdan, Meshi-Zahav noted that the designation “further obligates Zaka to meet the highest national expectations and standards during times of emergency.”

It should be noted that Zaka was recognized by the United Nations as an international humanitarian volunteer organization in 2005, and was granted advisory status at the UN as an official body in 2016.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem/Photo Credit: מנדי הכטמן)