Family returns to Kibbutz Nirim after surviving infant's Oct. 7 terror ordeal
Aimee and Uriel Labban moved back to Kibbutz Nirim in August 2025, three years after their newborn son Kai survived a Hamas attack that destroyed their home.
During the Oct. 7 Hamas raid on Kibbutz Nirim, militants ignited the Labban home and attempted to smoke out the occupants, prompting Aimee and Uriel Labban to place their ten-day-old son Kai in a windowsill crevice. The baby survived severe smoke inhalation and a bout of blood poisoning, while the parents were rescued by Israel Defense Forces and taken to a bunker and then a hospital. A photo of Kai in the safe room spread internationally, making him the youngest recognized survivor of the attacks.
Over the following years, the family received donations of clothing, diapers and other essentials from supporters worldwide. In August 2025, despite their home’s destruction and ongoing trauma, the Labbans returned to Kibbutz Nirim, where Aimee teaches and Uriel works as a hydrotherapist, affirming their commitment to stay in Israel.
Why it matters
The story shows personal resilience and the lasting impact of the Oct. 7 attacks on Israeli civilians.
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