A Bedouin warned soldiers of an ambush during the terrorist attacks of October 7th. The government is now acknowledging his actions.
Hamas terrorists attacked Bedouin Hamid Abu Arar and his wife in their vehicle on October 7. They killed his wife and another passenger, and wounded him and his seven-month-old son. Despite the ordeal, he managed to warn Israeli soldiers of an impending ambush, saving their lives.
After his car was shot at, the father of nine, despite his own injuries, took his son and hid in an electrical box for several hours. He called the police and the health service, but was unable to reach them.
From his hiding place, Abu Arar overheard several Hamas terrorists discussing plans to ambush soldiers. Shortly afterward, he heard soldiers speaking Hebrew. When a firefight broke out, and fearing to be caught in the crossfire, he took off his clothes and ran with his son in his arms to the soldiers. He warned them about four terrorists and explained their location. Another hour and a half would pass before his eventual rescue.
Permanent residency as a reward
Out of recognition and gratitude, the Israeli government granted Abu Arar permanent residency on Wednesday. He is being hailed as a hero for his actions during the Hamas terror attack.
Abu Arar was born in the Gaza Strip. Until his recent asylum application, he did not have permanent residency in Israel. "Bedouin" is the traditional term for nomads of the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding areas. They consider Ishmael their ancestor. Approximately 220,000 Bedouins live in Israel, comprising 2.4 percent of the total population.
Thanks for courage and resilience
“We are showing the world that we are fighting against evil and darkness, and that our partnership as sons of Abraham is strong and courageous,” said Israeli Interior Minister Moshe Arbel (Shass). “Israeli civilians and soldiers are all indebted to you. The Interior Ministry thanks you and declares you an integral part of the State of Israel.” (Israelnetz)
