On June 15, the Weizmann Institute of Science was struck by two Iranian ballistic missiles. Soon after, a poem about the destruction went viral. But good news: Weizmann science is alive and well.
Two months ago, the Weizmann Institute of Science was struck by two ballistic missiles launched from Iran — part of a broader attack on Israel’s civilian infrastructure. The missiles caused severe damage to five major research buildings, disrupting over 50 labs engaged in life-changing work across cancer research, climate science, computer science, and more. Miraculously, no lives were lost.
In the days that followed, a poem titled Shiva for Science began circulating online. Written by Hanna Yerushalmi — a rabbi, therapist, and poet — the poem captured the destruction, loss and grief that would soon give way to resilience, resolve, and reemergence.
Hanna, who has long held a deep appreciation for science and even visited the Weizmann campus with her family, was moved by the missile strike. Her poem became a way to honor the loss and connect with those affected.
But here’s the good news: science is alive and well at Weizmann Institute of Science. Instead of despair, there’s been unwavering resolve.
As Prof. Alon Chen, President of the Weizmann Institute, recently wrote in Nature, “Over the course of history, and the many wars in our region, science has endured. We at Weizmann are facing challenges head-on and continuing in our mission as we always have: by advancing science that protects and sustains life.”
“The initial emotions of our scientists were a mix of shock, sadness, frustration and demoralization,” he continued. “That has quickly been replaced by motivation and hope, on the basis of their determination to get back to their work.”
That determination is already in motion. On campus, recovery efforts have begun.
Weizmann science continues to thrive in the face of adversity. From AI breakthroughs to life-saving medical research to tackling the environmental crisis, the work hasn’t stopped — and neither has the spirit. The Institute is not just rebuilding – they’re building back better than ever.
In Jewish tradition, shiva is a seven-day mourning period observed after a death. “It’s designed to help a mourner sit in their sadness,” Hanna explained. “To be cared for by their community. To not be alone.”
But how do we sit shiva for science? Hanna wondered. “It’s an impossible question. But through my poem, I was reaching out to scientists — to say, I see your loss. I honor it.”
Hanna Yerushalmi during a volunteering trip following October 7th.
Thankfully, even after the loss of facilities, samples, and data, science is alive and well. However, it’s up to all of us to continue to defend, nurture, and celebrate it.
“We have amazing research and innovation in Israel that contribute to humanity’s knowledge,” she said.
“We don’t walk away,” she added. “We dig in. We rebuild. We innovate.” Even in the face of loss, there is a turning toward life — honoring what was, while finding the strength to reimagine and move forward.
For those who would like to help with the recovery efforts, please consider making a gift to our Emergency and Recovery Fund.
