Population booming three years after Oct. 7, Sderot looks to show visitors city's resiliency

Three years after the October 7, 2023, attacks, Sderot's population has increased by nearly 20%, from 35,477 to 42,000 residents, with plans for five new neighborhoods to accommodate projected growth to 70,000. Deputy Mayor Elad Kalimi described the growth as "magic. It's a miracle," and emphasized the city's resilience and "spirit of unbreakability." Residents view living in Sderot as a "Zionist act." The city is now inviting visitors to experience its strength and meet its heroes, including through an August 11 event featuring tours led by locals.

• Cafe Chico, named after Captain Shiloh "Chico" Cohen, a commander killed on October 7, serves as a memorial to his heroism.
• Karen Kalfa, a Sderot teacher, shared how her children grew up under the threat of terrorism and the profound losses she experienced on October 7, noting that shared trauma has strengthened the community.