The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Deadly Iranian strike changes Purim for Haredi enclave in Beit Shemesh
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Mar 5, 2026 Charlie Summers, a police reporter who covers security scenes, and Sam Sokol, a political correspondent reporting on Israeli politics, discuss a deadly missile strike in Beit Shemesh. They describe the shock during Purim, varied Haredi reactions from somber observance to street revelry, policing differences, and how the strike affected Knesset activity and political calculations.
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Surreal Normalcy Beside Tragedy
- Purim preparations continued in parts of Beit Shemesh even after the strike, creating a surreal contrast between neighborhoods where people shopped and others where mourning unfolded.
- Sam noted children in costumes and normal pre-Purim activity just 15–20 minutes' drive from the impact site.
Purim Guidelines Often Flouted In Practice
- Home Front Command rules barred large public Megillah readings in bomb shelters, yet many communities flouted that guidance by holding services in synagogues or private homes.
- This tension highlighted a conflict between perceived safety and official wartime directives.
Private Megillah Reading Amid Street Revelry
- Sam attended a Megillah reading in a neighbor's apartment while other synagogues canceled or limited services.
- By midnight, however, he saw large groups of drunk teenagers roaming the streets despite wartime restrictions.