During my first days as Palestinian Director of the Parents Circle, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the escalating violence in recent weeks.

I was born and raised in Bethlehem where I currently live with my husband and three children.

I am particularly disturbed by the Israeli settler violence in the West Bank and Israeli border police and army invasions of cities in the north.

I am terrified to see settlers burning homes and cars, harming people, and invading cities while being protected by the army.

I am heartbroken to hear that 14 Palestinians, including children and girls, were killed. These deaths are a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence and injustice that the Palestinian people face every day.

The ongoing occupation and oppression of the Palestinian people is unacceptable and must end. It’s crucial that we recognize the importance of ending the occupation, which has caused immense suffering and injustice for generations.

As a mother, I’m deeply concerned for my children’s future in this country under the ongoing extremism and occupation.

As someone who has devoted the past 10 years of her professional life to the Parents Circle and especially to working with with bereaved mothers, I am constantly inspired by their steadfastness in embracing life and celebrating it in spite of the acute darkness. Their resilience, faith, and trust in hope that will bring better living conditions in the coming years have fostered my belief in hope.

It’s important to remember our values of reconciliation and peace, and to work towards a just and peaceful resolution to the conflict.

We must continue to raise our voices and demand action from our leaders to end the violence and oppression, and work towards a future where all people can live in peace and dignity.

I am honored to accept this position as the first woman co-Director of the Parents Circle.