The death toll from the attacks by Hamas in Israel has exceeded 1,200, while an estimated 150 people are believed to be in the custody of the terrorists in the Gaza Strip, and their well-being is uncertain.
Who was Ori Arad?
Among those who tragically lost their lives in these unprecedented attacks were individuals attending the Nova music festival, located just 5 kilometers from Gaza in the Negev desert. One of the festival’s workers, Ori, a 22-year-old from Holon, had recently returned from an Asian trip and was preparing to commence university the following week. The last conversation Ori had with his family took place on Saturday morning during the violent events. He had called his father and remained remarkably composed, providing details of the terrifying situation. He described the terrorist attack, which involved Kalashnikov machine gun fire and grenade explosions, and informed his family that he needed to make a critical decision.
Ori decided to confront the terrorists, got into his car, and drove toward the danger. Unfortunately, his vehicle was fired upon, causing it to overturn, and Ori lost consciousness. In the back seat of the car were two young girls, whom Ori had protected, and they sustained minor injuries. These girls pretended to be lifeless to survive. After roughly 20-30 minutes, Ori regained consciousness and began to move. Tragically, the attackers shot him again, a horrifying act reminiscent of dark historical events.
Ori’s family learned about the events from the young women he had saved. They heard about “an angel with curly hair and a gray jeep” on a television interview, and realizing it was likely their brother, approached the two women, showed them a picture, and received confirmation that Ori had indeed been their guardian angel. The family later received official confirmation of Ori’s untimely death, causing them immense grief.
