Bedouin Who Saved IDF Soldiers Granted Full Israeli Residency

By Yoni Weiss

Hamid Abu Ar’ar, a Bedouin resident of the Negev who valiantly rescued multiple IDF soldiers during the Hamas attack on Oct. 7 in southern Israel, on Wednesday was awarded full Israeli residency rights.

Despite the tragic loss of his wife, Fatima, who was murdered in front of him and their infant child on the same day, Abu Ar’ar risked his life to protect the soldiers from a terrorist ambush.

Born in the Gaza Strip, Abu Ar’ar lacked permanent status in Israel, as reported by Channel 13.

Interior Minister Moshe Arbel, in recognition of Abu Ar’ar’s courage and loyalty, decided to grant him permanent residency rights. Arbel emphasized the importance of supporting those who demonstrate loyalty and choose life in the face of terrorism, stating, “Aside from the uncompromising war on terror, we must strengthen those who show loyalty and choose life.”