Palestinian Boy from Khan Younis Endures Torture to Convert to Judaism in Israel

Dor Shachar, formerly Ayman Abu Tsubukh, was born in the heart of Khan Younis in Gaza, raised amid hatred toward Jews and violence, including witnessing executions and brutalizing experiences under Hamas. Despite growing up in a society that glorified martyrdom and demonized Jews, Shachar felt alienated from this culture of death. After a traumatic childhood event and rejection by his family, he fled Gaza at age 11, crossing into Israel where he encountered kindness from Jewish families and was introduced to Judaism.

His journey to conversion was fraught with hardship. After being deported back to Gaza, he was imprisoned and tortured for seven months by Palestinian authorities who sought to force a confession that he collaborated with Israeli intelligence and intended to convert. Upon release, he was rejected and abused by his family, prompting him to escape again to Israel via Egypt and Turkey. Eventually, after legal battles and bureaucratic obstacles, he converted to Judaism in Jerusalem, adopting the name Dor Shachar, symbolizing hope and renewal.

Shachar now travels as a speaker, sharing his story to warn Israel about the dangers of underestimating the ideological commitment to martyrdom in Palestinian society. He has repeatedly tried to alert Israeli leaders about threats, including the October 7 attacks, but felt ignored. His message emphasizes the existential nature of the conflict and the importance of Jewish unity and identity. His transformation from a child raised in hatred to a committed Jew serves as both a personal triumph and a cautionary tale for Israel.

The interview with Eli Guthelf on Kikar FM reveals a harrowing yet inspiring narrative of survival, faith, and identity, highlighting the complex realities within Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.