In the midst of fear and uncertainty, there are stories that shine a light on humanity's ability to come together in solidarity. One such story comes from Leipzig, where Eldar Fano, a 42-year-old Israeli and owner of a small hummus bar, experienced an unexpected act of bravery that provided him with hope in some of the darkest days following the October 13 terrorist attacks.

Fano’s hummus bar, nestled in the trendy Plagwitz neighborhood, had long been a beloved spot for locals, serving authentic Israeli dishes. But on October 13, the day after Hamas declared a "day of rage" and called for attacks on Israeli and Jewish institutions worldwide, Fano was filled with dread. As the owner of the only Israeli restaurant in the city, he knew that his bar could become a target for violence. Fano’s first instinct was to close up and stay safe. His only intention that day was to tidy up a bit, ensure everything was in order, and leave—without opening his restaurant.

But as Fano arrived at his bar, he was met with an unexpected and powerful gesture of support. Outside, he found two men waiting for him. They were clearly identifiable as soccer fans, sporting shirts and scarves that marked them as members of the ultra fan scene of Eintracht Frankfurt, a prominent German football team. The two men had heard about the situation and, without hesitation, offered Fano their protection.

“We’ll protect you and your bar,” they told him. Surprised, Fano initially explained that he had planned to close due to the recent calls for violence. But the fans insisted he stay open, offering not only their security but also their support as fellow human beings. They assured him that they would be there to guard his establishment and ensure his safety.

Feeling overwhelmed by their generosity, Fano decided to unlock the door and allow them inside. He offered them drinks and two plates of hummus as a token of his appreciation. "It was awesome," Fano recalls, visibly moved. "They were total heroes."

The situation had begun with a feeling of dread, but thanks to the soccer fans’ unwavering support, Fano was able to find courage in a moment of fear. His initial reluctance to open the bar gave way to an emotional exchange of kindness, one that turned a day of potential danger into a story of solidarity and resilience.

Later that day, after the friendly football match between Eintracht Frankfurt and BSG Chemie, the protectors returned. This time, they brought more supporters with them, all rallying to show their solidarity with Fano and his restaurant. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie as the fans enjoyed whiskey together, celebrating not only their friendship with one another but also their mutual commitment to combating anti-Semitism.

Fano, who doesn’t know the names or contact information of these men, is still deeply moved by their act of kindness. He describes them as “heroes” who gave him courage when he needed it most. Their selfless act of support, in a time when many would have been too afraid to stand up, serves as a reminder that hope and humanity can emerge even in the face of fear and hatred.

The significance of this gesture lies not just in the physical protection offered by the fans, but in the emotional strength it gave Fano. The presence of these soccer fans, members of a football scene known for its passionate commitment to fighting anti-Semitism, transformed what could have been a traumatic day into one of unexpected solidarity.

For Fano, the experience was nothing short of life-affirming. As he reflects on the events of October 13, he describes it as a “crazy, extremely emotional day.” What began in fear ended with a powerful message of friendship and resilience. The support of the soccer fans not only protected his business but also renewed his faith in the kindness of others, even during times of deep division and unrest.

In Leipzig, where Eldar Fano’s Israeli hummus bar remains a symbol of culture and courage, the actions of these soccer fans serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the power of community and the unyielding spirit of solidarity.