Nissim Louk, the father of murdered Israeli concert-goer Shani Louk, appeared at a pro-Israel rally in Times Square and spoke about the enduring image of his daughter’s lifeless body being paraded around by Hamas terrorists. He emphasized the darkness the Jewish state is fighting against, pointing to before and after photos that show Shani joyfully dancing at a music festival and then her half-naked body in the back of a pickup truck after the Hamas militants stormed the event. Nissim spoke about Shani being a bright light in the world and how the militants brought pain and suffering, ultimately leading to her death.
Nissim praised an Associated Press photographer for snapping the pictures of his daughter’s mangled body, calling it one of the most important photos of the last 50 years. He described Shani as a beautiful girl and free spirit who brought light and happiness wherever she went. Shani Louk became one of the most recognizable faces of the Oct. 7 massacre where Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 Israelis and took more than 200 others hostage in Gaza. Despite initial reports indicating she might have survived, Shani was confirmed dead weeks later.
During his visit to the US, Nissim spoke about his daughter at several synagogues before appearing at the pro-Israel rally with roughly 1,000 people to celebrate the 76th anniversary of Israel’s independence, which he referred to as an amazing miracle following the Holocaust. Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, who also spoke at the event, emphasized the importance of remembering the Israeli soldiers who have died since 1948 and the victims of Hamas’ attack last year, before celebrating the creation of the Jewish state. Attendees wanted to show that the Jewish people are alive, vibrant, unafraid, and visible.
A Jewish couple from Brooklyn, who attended the rally in Times Square, expressed the importance of showing Jewish pride and celebrating the day Israel gained independence. For them, Israel’s independence is significant for all Jews and makes them feel safe. The couple, along with many others at the rally, wanted to demonstrate their support for Israel and the Jewish community. The event was described as epic and a show of solidarity within the Jewish community, showcasing their presence in New York City. The tragedy involving Shani Louk highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by Israel in the conflict with Hamas and the importance of standing strong as a community.
