110 Israelis - Children of Fallen Heroes, Wounded Soldiers, and Hostage Survivors - Head to the 2026 World Cup

In the shadow of unimaginable loss, a powerful story of resilience and joy is unfolding across the ocean. A delegation of 110 Israelis — including children who lost parents in war, wounded soldiers, and returned hostages — is traveling to the New York-New Jersey area for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. What began as broken promises from fathers who dreamed of taking their children to the greatest sporting event on Earth is now becoming reality.

The initiative is led by Fulfilling Dreams, a volunteer-powered Israeli nonprofit that has spent years making the impossible possible for vulnerable children and families. The fully funded campaign brings together war orphans, those recovering from injuries, and hostages who have returned home, offering them premium match seats, Broadway shows, and a full week of celebration and healing in America.

Many of these young Israelis carry deeply personal stories. Their fathers, who served as soldiers or security personnel, had promised them a magical trip to the World Cup, a dream that was shattered when they were taken too soon. Now, through this project, those promises are being fulfilled in the most meaningful way.

One of the most emotional moments came in the viral surprise videos that helped propel the campaign. Israeli actor and comedian Shalom Michaelashvili surprised Rotem and Roi, the young sons of Tal Eilon z”l, the security commander of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Tal, 46, was killed on October 7 while rushing to defend his family and community. He left behind his wife Mazi and their three children. In the video, the boys’ faces shift from disbelief to overwhelming joy as they learn they are flying to America for the World Cup — a trip their father had dreamed of sharing with them.

Similar heartfelt surprises were delivered to other children, including moments where kids were woken from sleep or met their soccer heroes, capturing pure, unfiltered emotion that resonated across Israel and the Jewish world.

The campaign, promoted on platforms like Charidy (“2026 World Cup, Fulfill their Dream”) and Israeli crowdfunding sites, quickly captured the hearts of donors and went fully funded. The response showed the depth of solidarity and the desire to bring light into lives that have known too much darkness.

For these 110 Israelis, the World Cup is more than football. It is a week to breathe, to cheer, to laugh, and to feel the warmth of community and celebration after carrying burdens far too heavy for their years. In the stands of MetLife Stadium and other venues, amid the roar of the crowd and the magic of the matches, they will create new memories, ones of hope, strength, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

As the delegation experiences this once-in-a-lifetime journey, their presence in America carries a deeper message — one of life continuing, of dreams enduring, and of a nation that refuses to let grief have the final word.

We're not crying --- you're crying.