MIDDLETOWN, N.J. — Middletown officials and residents gathered on Tuesday to formally sign a sister-city agreement with Ofakim, Israel, a move aimed at fostering cultural and community connections between the two municipalities. The agreement was celebrated during a visit by Mayor Itzik Danino of Ofakim, marking a significant moment of international partnership.
The pact comes nearly a year after Middletown officials, including local leaders and members of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, traveled to Ofakim following the tragic attacks of October 7, 2023. During that assault, Ofakim lost 48 of its residents, leaving a deep impact on the town and its global connections. Middletown’s leaders expressed solidarity during their visit to Israel, laying the foundation for the agreement signed this week.
Mayor Danino’s trip to Middletown included meetings with local leaders, community members, and officials from the Jewish Federation, who played a key role in fostering the partnership. “Today, Middletown proudly welcomed Mayor Itzik Danino of Ofakim, Israel, to sign a sister-city pact, forever uniting our two towns,” said Tony Perry, mayor of Middletown, in a statement.
The partnership emphasizes collaboration in areas such as education, cultural exchange, and economic development. Both municipalities pledged to maintain strong communication and build on shared values and mutual respect. Officials noted that the agreement highlights the resilience and unity of the Jewish community, which has played a vital role in connecting the two towns.