Recent news has been marked by a shocking tragedy that occurred in Kibbutz Be’eri, located near the Gaza Strip. On Saturday October 7, Hamas launched a violent operation called “Al-Aqsa Flood”, targeting this kibbutz in particular. The attackers attacked relentlessly, killing nearly a hundred residents and kidnapping several others, including ten members of the same family.
Annalee Milstein, a resident of Be’eri, experienced this terrible day from afar, not being there during the attack. However, she received messages from her family back on the kibbutz, informing them that they were all sheltering in the safety shelter, fearing for their lives. Unfortunately, since 11:20 a.m. this Saturday, Annalee has no longer had any contact with them.
Among the ten members of his family kidnapped, three are children. Three-year-old Yahel is described as an adorable and confident little girl. Eight-year-old Naveh is a kind and beautiful boy. And twelve-year-old Noam is a beautiful and funny young girl. Everyone was gathered for the holidays, because they do not live in Be’eri all year round.
Annalee is convinced that her family is still alive and that they have been taken to Gaza. A close friend of his father-in-law tried to contact him several times, but eventually someone responded in broken Hebrew with an Arabic accent, indicating that he had been kidnapped. Additionally, a video was sent showing his family’s house being burned to the ground, but no bodies were found inside. His family’s cell phones were also traced to Gaza. Despite no help or contact from authorities, Annalee and her community are doing everything they can to find them.
After the attack, the bodies of those killed in Be’eri were found, providing sad confirmation of this violent tragedy. However, information on the fate of the hostages held in Gaza has yet to be independently verified.
This heartbreaking story highlights the reality of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which continues to cause suffering, loss of life and deep divisions. The residents of Be’eri, like many other communities affected by violence, hope to be able to find their missing loved ones safe and sound, but the road to recovery will be long and difficult.
In conclusion, this tragedy at Kibbutz Be’eri highlights the horror of the violence perpetrated by Hamas and the devastation it wreaks on the lives of innocent civilians. It is crucial to continue to raise awareness and seek peaceful solutions to end this cycle of destructive violence. Solidarity and support for the communities affected by these terrorist acts are more necessary than ever.