The ‘Tribe of Nova’ music festival in Israel turned from a celebration of music and culture into a nightmare on October 7, 2023, when Hamas gunmen launched a brutal attack on the site. According to Israeli authorities, 364 people lost their lives in the tragic event, with around forty individuals being abducted.
FRANCE 24’s reporter Shirli Sitbon had the opportunity to speak to one of the survivors of the Nova festival, Alina Tovberg. In the interview, Tovberg recounted the harrowing experience of being caught in the midst of the attack and the chaos that ensued. She described how the gunmen came from all directions, instilling fear and panic among the festival-goers.
Tovberg shared her disbelief and shock at the senseless violence that unfolded at the festival, a place that was supposed to be a safe space for people to come together and enjoy music. She expressed her sorrow for the lives lost and the trauma that she and other survivors now carry with them.
The attack at the ‘Tribe of Nova’ music festival serves as a tragic reminder of the ongoing conflict and violence that plagues the region. It also highlights the resilience and courage of those who survived the ordeal, like Alina Tovberg, who are now left to pick up the pieces and make sense of the senseless tragedy.
Watch the video by FRANCE 24 English
Video “‘It came from all over’: Nova festival survivor speaks to FRANCE 24 • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 10/07/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English