Marina Rosenberg-Koritny, head of WZO’s Department of Aliyah Promotion, stated: “Two years ago, we started a new tradition. We plant a young tree in the name of each student in the Hebrew courses we conduct. The trees symbolize, more than anything else, our connection to the land and the connection they create for the Jews around the world. These trees represent hope for the future of the Jewish people, tradition, history and Israeli identity.”

WZO Chairman Yaakov Hagoel added that, “In my opinion, the connection of every Jew to the land and trees of Israel symbolizes the connection to our identity. The strength and longevity of the tree lies in the degree to which it is rooted in the ground. Just like the people of Israel, its roots are planted deep in the earth. We returned to the land “livnot u’lehibanot” — to build and to be built. While missiles are falling, we learn our traditional language and strengthen our culture. While our enemies burn forests, we plant trees. When they try to destroy, we build.”