From Iranian missiles to menorahs, Israeli blacksmith forges trauma into works of art

Yaron Bob, an Israeli blacksmith from Moshav Yated, transforms remnants of rockets and missiles fired at Israel into works of art and Judaica. His career shifted nearly 18 years ago after a Qassam rocket hit his high school, leaving him with PTSD symptoms. He found solace in blacksmithing, turning destructive metal into beautiful objects like roses, menorahs, and mezuzahs. Bob's creations, including a B-2 bomber-shaped mezuzah gifted to former US President Donald Trump, have reached international figures and the White House. He also crafts musical instruments called "Sounds of Peace" from rockets. Proceeds from his "Rockets into Roses" enterprise are donated to terror victims and bomb shelter construction. Following the October 7th attacks, Bob was displaced but eventually created a sculpture for Elon Musk, inscribed with "Never Again." He states, "I feel that it's my destiny to share our story – the story of Israel – with anyone willing to listen."