SIOUX CITY (KTIV) – A pilgrimage to Jerusalem took a turn for 11 members of the Sioux City Jewish community when air strikes in the Middle East escalated.
Dr. Steven Gordon, A member of the community, says he’s quite surprised about Israel’s relationship with its neighbors.
“The United Emirates have been friendly with Israel, also Egypt,” said Gordon, “Iran, and Iraq have not been widely regarded by the other nations in the area.”
Dr. Gordon tells KTIV that he originally planned to travel to the Holy Land on Tuesday, June 3 and Wednesday, June 4, to visit his daughter in Beersheba, Israel; however, those flights were cancelled.
The group was able to travel on Monday, June 9, and landed in Jerusalem on June 10.
He says it’s an adventure to go to Israel, especially with 10 friends.
“The rabbi is a very learned man and lived in Jerusalem for quite some time,” said Gordon,” His Hebrew is very good, and he has been quite an expert in giving us insights about the political and religious history of the country.”
Dr. Gordon says he’s safe, happy and morale in the country is very high. During this interview with KTIV, Gordon received notice of an emergency alert to shelter in place. He has been in contact since that time and says he and the others are doing fine.
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