Solidarity Visit at a Bedouin Family

Last Friday, three sisters and two young girls from the same family embarked on a journey to Nablus. Unfortunately, they mistakenly entered the Jewish settlement of Givat Ronen, where they were subjected to an attack. Their car was set ablaze and stones were hurled at them. One settler even threatened a three-year-old girl and her aunt with a firearm.

The opportunity to meet these brave women in their home in Rahat was deeply moving. The physical and emotional wounds inflicted by this unexpected act of violence will require time to heal. The outpouring of support, comfort, and encouragement from well-wishers has undoubtedly provided some solace to the family and the broader Bedouin community in the Negev.

Our diverse group, comprising Jewish, Muslim, and Christian members, expressed their shock and disbelief at such violence, as well as their deep sorrow for the suffering of these innocent women. During this visit, I was reminded of an interview with a humanitarian who assists persecuted individuals worldwide. He shared his initial fear that the people he was trying to help would reject him, as many journalists visit their communities, conduct interviews, ask probing questions, and then leave without offering any tangible assistance.

This made me question the nature of our visits to Arab families enduring hardship. While they may not need financial aid, the comfort and support we provide are invaluable. Even more crucial is our commitment to promoting tolerance and peace among children and youth. However, the circumstances of these families remain largely unchanged. Is there more concrete help or support we could offer them? This question, unfortunately, seems rhetorical and only adds to the pain. Despite understanding the complexity of the issue and not harboring any illusions, I continue to pray for change.