Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the homes of bereaved Druze families who lost their loved ones in the Swords of Iron conflict with Hamas. The visit took place at Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif's residence in Julis, the communal center of the Druze community. Netanyahu expressed his condolences, acknowledging the profound loss suffered by the families.
During the visit, Mona, the widow of Lt.-Col. Alim Abdallah, shared a poignant moment with the Prime Minister. She revealed that she recently discovered gifts prepared by her husband for his soldiers before his tragic passing, including a medallion inscribed with "I have no other country." Reflecting on their sacrifice, she emphasized, "We sacrificed what is most dear to us, and it must be ensured that the blood of our soldiers was not shed in vain."
Netanyahu spoke solemnly: "I am here today not only as the Prime Minister but also as a brother. Our enduring partnership is founded on a covenant of blood and a covenant of life."
He continued, "Life demands the courage to fight for it. We lose our best sons and sometimes daughters in the face of those who seek to harm us—Jew and non-Jew alike. Jews, Druze, Circassians, Christians, Bedouin, and Muslims—all are targets of their violence. On October 7, they sought our destruction. Without the readiness to fight, there is no life. Without sacrifice, there is no fighting. Without fighting, there is no victory. We are winning because of our collective heroism and sacrifice."
Netanyahu paid tribute to the fallen soldiers who bravely faced danger in the north and south, displaying heroism, sacrifice, leadership, and personal example. He expressed his deepest respects to them and their families.
"As someone from a bereaved family myself, I understand the magnitude of your pain. But I also find solace in knowing that our fallen heroes have secured our existence here," he added emotionally. "This is a covenant of life, a bond of brotherhood and sisterhood among us."
He concluded with heartfelt wishes: "Please convey my wife's regards and those of all Israelis. I offer you a warm embrace, praying that sorrow will not visit us again."
Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif emphasized the deep and enduring bond between the Druze community and the Jewish people in Israel. This bond, he noted, is rooted in shared values and a common vision, upheld through the heroism of Druze soldiers and a steadfast commitment to life.
Tarif praised the fallen Druze soldiers for their courage, instilled by their families and their unwavering belief in defending the state's citizens. He called for honoring the fallen, supporting grieving families, and recognizing the sacrifices made by wounded soldiers and all those who served in defense of the country.
Accompanying Netanyahu were his Chief-of-Staff Tzachi Braverman, Prime Minister's Office Director General Yossi Shelley, and his Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Roman Gofman.