Man Sentenced to Life for 2021 Murder of Rasha Stawi in Maghar

The Central District Court in Nazareth has sentenced 33-year-old Nidal Dagher of Rameh to life imprisonment plus an additional four years for the 2021 murder of Rasha Stawi in her home in Maghar. The court found that Dagher had premeditated the crime, arriving at Stawi's home wearing a helmet to conceal his face and carrying a loaded handgun. He shot Stawi at close range as she attempted to shield herself behind her then 10-and-a-half-year-old daughter.

Dagher also received a four-year sentence for mistreating a minor, as the victim's daughter witnessed her mother's murder. He was further convicted of obstructing justice and offenses related to driving and using a vehicle to commit the crime. The court ordered Dagher to pay 258,000 shekels in compensation to Stawi's children and brother.

The court emphasized the severe psychological trauma inflicted on the child by witnessing the murder, deeming it a separate harm that would likely affect her throughout her life. Dagher's prior criminal record, including convictions for weapons offenses, obstructing police, and dangerous driving, was considered, as was his lack of remorse or acceptance of responsibility.

The motive behind Stawi's murder, which occurred on November 25, 2021, remains unclear. At the time, police suspected that Dagher may have been sent by another individual to carry out the shooting.