On October 7, 2023, the long-held assumption that Magen David Adom’s (MDA) uniform symbolized impartial medical assistance was profoundly challenged when emergency responders were directly targeted while providing care. Uri Shacham, MDA’s chief of staff and head of Technology Innovation, spoke about the events and their implications at a recent diplomatic conference in Jerusalem.

Shacham, who began volunteering with MDA at age 15, reflected on the organization’s traditional role as a neutral medical entity. However, during the attacks carried out by Hamas terrorists that day, MDA personnel and infrastructure became deliberate targets. Ambulances and medical stations were attacked, resulting in the deaths of two MDA medics from Kibbutz Nir Oz who were treating wounded civilians.

Despite facing severe danger, MDA responders continued their mission. Shacham emphasized that their decision to enter hazardous areas was not a disregard for their own safety but a commitment to preserving others’ lives. “They chose to be emissaries for life,” he said, highlighting the dedication and courage demonstrated under threat.

The organization was compelled to implement immediate protective measures for its teams. One key decision was the deployment of armored, bulletproof ambulances—a strategy credited with saving lives during the confrontation. Beyond reactive measures, Shacham noted that MDA maintains rigorous preparedness protocols, including advanced training with simulation systems and fortified facilities designed to equip responders for complex and hostile emergency scenarios.

MDA’s capabilities are also supported by international assistance, enabling the operation of approximately 2,000 ambulances nationwide and the maintenance of a secure blood center capable of managing tens of thousands of blood units even in times of conflict. This infrastructure is vital for sustaining medical services in adverse conditions.

In his remarks, Shacham expressed gratitude to MDA’s workforce of 40,000 volunteers and employees, underscoring their unwavering commitment to providing emergency care across Israel. He also highlighted the continuing risks faced by medical personnel and the critical need to equip them adequately to save lives amid ongoing threats.