ZAKA, Chabad launch joint international disaster response and rescue unit for Jewish communities

ZAKA Search and Rescue and Chabad have announced the launch of a joint international emergency response, search, and rescue, and Chesed Shel Emes (care for the deceased) unit to provide rapid assistance to Jewish communities facing crises worldwide.The initiative was announced last Friday during the International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Emissaries, known as Kinus Hashluchim, in New York.The partnership combines Chabad's global network of emissaries with the operational capabilities of ZAKA's International Unit.The launch event was attended by ZAKA CEO Dubi Weissenstern, ZAKA Deputy Director of Operations Chaim Weingarten, ZAKA board member Kobi Ginzburg, ZAKA International Unit Commander Yossi Landau, ZAKA Europe Commander Nachman Dickstein, and ZAKA US representatives Yaakov Landau and Moshe Rozenberg.Chabad shluchim frequently serve as the initial point of contact for Jewish individuals facing emergencies far from home, offering immediate support and coordinating with local authorities, the organizers said.ZAKA, which holds recognized status at the United Nations, operates internationally at disaster sites in coordination with local emergency organizations.Unit will provide emergency training, resources to Chabad emissariesThe new unit will equip Chabad emissaries with professional training, operational resources, and access to ZAKA's specialized capabilities. Training programs will cover emergency first response, search and rescue, disaster victim recovery, maintaining the dignity of the deceased, and guidance on Halacha.The initiative will also establish deployment procedures and provide trained personnel and specialized…