Rabbi Meir Shmueli Publicly Apologizes to Arab Medical Teams in Abu Ghosh Reconciliation Event

In a rare and significant reconciliation event held on Sunday at the "Sukat HaShalom" in Abu Ghosh, Rabbi Meir Shmueli publicly expressed sincere regret for his past remarks directed at Arab medical teams. The apology came amid a gathering organized by attorney Amit Hadad and former Abu Ghosh council head Issa Jaber, attended by Arab doctors and medical staff who had previously been the subject of the Rabbi's comments. Shmueli explained that his statements, made during the emotional turmoil following the October 7 attacks, were a grave mistake born out of shock and pain and did not reflect his true values or teachings.

"I came here tonight to look into the eyes of the Arab medical teams and ask for forgiveness," Shmueli said, emphasizing that Arab doctors, like their Jewish counterparts, dedicate themselves daily to saving lives and exemplify humanity. He took full responsibility for his words and reaffirmed his commitment to unity and peace, stating, "Where there is peace, God is present."

The event, which marks the beginning of a series of dialogue meetings across Israel, was also attended by former Shomron council chairman Bentzi Lieberman and translator Abdul Abdulrahman. Host Issa Jaber highlighted that approximately 40% of doctors in Israel are Arab and stressed that shared values outweigh differences. Lieberman concluded by affirming that Shmueli's apology was heartfelt and called for openness and mutual understanding to live together in the region.