Bedouin Worker and Kibbutz Member Survive October 7 Terror Attack Through Courage and Trust

On the morning of October 7, during the brutal terror attack on Kibbutz Be'eri, Aya Midan was cycling back to the kibbutz when she nearly entered the area controlled by terrorists. A chance encounter with Hesham Elkrenawi, a 22-year-old Bedouin from Rahat who worked in the kibbutz dining hall, saved her life. Despite initial mutual suspicion, Aya feared Hesham might be a terrorist, while Hesham knew Israeli soldiers might mistake him for one, the two hid together for seven tense hours in a nearby thicket.

Hesham recorded their time hiding on his watch, fearing that if anything happened to them, the recordings would reveal the truth. Aya recalls thinking she was about to die, but gradually realized Hesham was her protector. After escaping, they were nearly shot by Israeli soldiers who mistook them for terrorists, but Aya convinced the officers they were not captives.

Hesham, who was 19 at the time, had been preparing the kibbutz's Sabbath meal when the attack began. He and his family narrowly escaped terrorists who stopped their car at the kibbutz gate. Aya, who had left the kibbutz early that morning, was called back by her husband to enter a safe room. When she returned, she was warned by Hesham and others about the terrorists inside.

Following the ordeal, Aya and Hesham developed a close friendship, speaking almost daily. Hesham later enlisted in the Israeli police, inspired by his experience saving Aya. Aya admits she initially suspected Hesham because of his ethnicity but overcame her prejudice. Recently, Hesham completed a police scout course, with Aya proudly supporting him.

Their story highlights the complexity and humanity amid the terror attack, showing how trust and courage can emerge even in the darkest moments.