The Legacy of Rachel Cohen: the Protector of Terror Victims’ Children, Murdered

The Heartbreaking Fate of Rachel Cohen: From Sheltering Children to Becoming a Victim of Terror

Rachel Cohen and Aliza Reiss, both from the settlement of Kedumim, were tragically killed on Monday in a shooting attack at al-Fundaq Junction, alongside former resident Elad Winkelstein, as confirmed by local authorities. The victims were targeted by two terrorists from northern Samaria, who fled the scene after the attack. Rachel Cohen, 73, a retired educational counselor, is survived by her husband and five daughters. Her daughter Naomi described her as "a woman full of joy, kindness, and positive energy," someone who was "always there for everyone."

Eliana Fleming | JFeed | 22:01 07.01.25 | 2 min read

Rachel Cohen HY'D

In 2002, during the brutal Passover massacre in Elon Moreh, a terrorist slaughtered Rachel Cohen's dear friends, the Gavish family. In the aftermath, Rachel Cohen, a woman known for her boundless kindness, opened her home to the surviving children of this tragedy. Tragically, just yesterday, she was murdered by terrorists herself. Her unwavering kindness made her a living legend, but her life was cut short by terrorism on Monday.

On that horrific Passover Eve in 2002, a terrorist attacked the home of the Gavish family, killing Rachel and David Gavish, their eldest son Avraham, a heroic commander in the Sayeret Matkal, and their grandfather Yitzhak Kanner. Rachel Cohen, the closest friend of Rachel Gavish, took immediate action after the massacre. As the survivors, the Gavish children, fled for their lives—some escaping by climbing down a ladder barefoot from the second-floor windows—Rachel opened her door and heart. They found refuge in her home, traumatized and uncertain of how to navigate the unimaginable task of burying their loved ones, who had been with them just the day before for the Seder.

In the days that followed, during the family’s shiva, as they sat in the bullet-riddled living room of their home, the Gavish children faced the heartbreaking reality of leaving the place forever. They decided to move to Kedumim. But Rachel Cohen, ever the protector, made the decision to follow them. She left her own home in Elon Moreh and relocated to a nearby house in Kedumim, staying close to the children. The Gavish family rented their own home, but Rachel was always there—steadfast in her role as their guardian.

For over two decades, Rachel remained a constant presence. She stood beside the Gavish children at their weddings, at memorials, and at every significant moment in their lives, never once faltering in her devotion. Her care and love for them knew no bounds, ensuring they knew they were never truly alone.

Yet following the devastating terror attack claiming the life of Rachel Cohen, these once children of terror are orphaned yet again.

We can no longer bear this unending evil that attacks the heart of our goodness, time and time again. We simply cannot.

This version conveys the same emotional tone and details of Rachel Cohen's life, highlighting her selflessness and the tragic turn of events.

Ynet contributed to this article.