A Beloved Tradition Interrupted by War – Now Finally Returning
For years, Kerem Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has delivered Christmas trees to embassies and diplomatic missions across Israel; a gesture of friendship, cultural respect, and international connection.
But when the war broke out two years ago, this quiet but meaningful tradition came to an abrupt halt.
This year, after months of recovery work, careful forest management, and renewed cooperation across Israel, KKL-JNF has proudly restored its Christmas tree distribution, once again welcoming diplomats to pick up their trees and celebrate the holiday season.
KKL-JNF Golani Nursey Staff
110 Trees. 34 Diplomatic Missions. One Message of Hope.
From the U.S. Embassy and the Delegation of the European Union to the Russian Embassy and many others, diplomatic representatives across Israel placed orders for a total of 110 Christmas trees grown by KKL-JNF foresters.
These aren’t imported trees — they’re Arizona cedars grown in Israel, cultivated in Givat Yeshayahu and several KKL-JNF northern forests until they reach a perfect height of about two meters.
- Spreads holiday spirit and tradition across cultures.
- Supports responsible forest management and reduces illegal cutting.
- Strengthens cooperation with nations worldwide.
Distribution of Christmas trees to Christian communities in Israel. Yoav Dvir KKL-JNF Photo Archive
“The Christmas tree is more than a holiday emblem; it is a bridge of international cooperation, cultural understanding, and shared values… The return of this tradition serves as a reminder that goodwill and unity can still grow.”
— Yuval Yenni, CFO and Acting CDO of KKL-JNF
In a year when Israel has faced unprecedented challenges, the return of this tradition serves as a reminder that goodwill and unity can still grow, even in difficult times.
Keeping Israel’s Forests and Its Traditions Alive
By reviving Christmas tree distribution, KKL-JNF reaffirms its appreciation for Christian organizations, visiting dignitaries, and the global community that stands with Israel.
And behind every tree is the same mission KKL-JNF has upheld since its founding:
strengthening the land of Israel, supporting Jewish aliyah, and building a future rooted in cooperation and hope.
Planting ceremony in Ofer Forest. Ancho Gosh JINIPIX, KKL-JNF Photo Archive
Plant Hope Today
Join the tradition. Your donation helps us plant trees, restore the land, and build a sustainable future for Israel.
About KKL-JNF
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has been developing the land of Israel and strengthening the bond between the Jewish people and its homeland since 1901. KKL-JNF continues to meet the State of Israel’s changing needs and, together with its friends worldwide, create a better Israel through projects in forestry, environment, combating desertification and climate change, community development, water management, ecotourism, agricultural R&D, education and more.
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) is a public benefit corporation, number: 520020314. KKL-JNF was established in 1901 and since first purchasing land in Eretz Yisrael in the early part of the 20th century, it has continued to operate on behalf and for the benefit of the Jewish people and as the trustee of the Jewish people on its land in Israel