Meet the Bedouin family who saved dozens of people from Hamas

The commander of the Negev region police, brigadier general Efi Shayman, held a meeting with the Alkarnawi family from Rahat yesterday. Cousins Ismail, D'Haish, Hamed, and Rafi Alkarnawi were honored for their courageous efforts in rescuing numerous civilians during the tragic events of October 7. Among them was a woman named Aya from Kibbutz Be’eri, whom they also hosted in their home.

“Bedouins are our brothers,” the police officer said. “We came to convey our gratitude for your real-time actions in saving Israelis and bringing them to safety. This embodies the unity of Israeli society - Bedouins with Jews, Christians, Circassians; we are all brothers. Our real test lies in the day after."

Shayman expressed confidence that when the war ends, “we will build a better, safer, and stronger Israeli society."

'This is our homeland'

Ismail Alkarnawi spoke on behalf of the family.

“The day October 7, we experienced significant emotional distress,” he said. “Witnessing such events was challenging. We persevered through tough times, offering support to Aya to strengthen and encourage her. She is not alone; she is our sister. Having endured immense suffering, we chose to host Aya and Nadav from Ashdod in our home. They are now our brothers."

Alkarnawi added that they pray for the safe return of all the hostages and the recovery of the wounded.

“As Jews and Arabs, we are partners, citizens, and we give our contribution to the nation,” he concluded. “Bedouins serve in the army and police, collaborating in all aspects. It is crucial that this is acknowledged. We've dedicated our souls to the country; we have no other homeland."