Israeli Whose Parents Died on Oct 7 Calls for Peace at UN

Maor Ynon, an Israeli whose parents were killed during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, addressed the UN Security Council on September 29, criticizing the Israeli government. Ynon stated that the government "used Hamas's atrocities as a pretext to wage a destructive war of revenge," leading to "catastrophic consequences, the destruction of Gaza, accelerating ethnic cleansing, settlement expansion, and forced displacement in Judea and Samaria." His parents, Yaakov and Bella Ynon, were burned alive by Hamas terrorists in their home in Moshav Netiv Ha'asara. Bella was initially considered missing, but her remains were discovered by archaeologists in August 2024, confirming she was killed with her husband.

Speaking at the UN, Ynon recounted how his world collapsed on October 7, with his parents among the first victims. He emphasized his family's decision to reject revenge, stating, "Revenge will never bring my parents back. It will only fuel the endless cycle of bloodshed." He then introduced Aziz Abu-Sara, a Palestinian from East Jerusalem who lost his brother in Israeli custody, as a partner in building hope from grief. Together, they founded "InterAct International" to promote a different future.

Ynon presented a five-point plan for achieving a "just and sustainable peace," advocating for a "broad peace coalition" and the "two-state solution." He noted growing international support, citing Italian dockworkers refusing to load weapons and unions opposing settlement products. He urged the international community to join their efforts, referencing the Oslo Accords as proof that former enemies can recognize each other and stating that peace fails due to a lack of courage from leaders.

Aziz Abu-Sara also addressed the Security Council, condemning the "occupation, settlements, and destruction of Gaza" as intolerable injustices. He praised Ynon as one of the bravest people he knows, recalling Ynon's televised statement mourning not only his parents but also the children of Gaza. Abu-Sara called for targeted sanctions against those supporting violence, suggesting the international community join France, the UK, and Canada in restricting settlers and settlements. He also urged the Red Cross to assist Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, claiming Israel holds over 9,000 Palestinians, including more than 370 children.