### Father's Grief Highlights Inequality in Israeli Society After Missile Strike

### Amidst the tragedy of losing four family members, the call for equitable safety measures in Israel’s Arab-majority towns has ignited public outcry.

In the aftermath of a devastating missile strike that took the lives of four family members, including a daughter and two granddaughters, Kasem Abu al-Hija's anger and grief have exposed deep-seated societal divisions within Israel. The strike on Saturday demolished his home in Tamra, leaving behind a scene of chaos with belongings scattered and lives shattered. "I am so angry," the 67-year-old father lamented, grappling with the loss of his loved ones.

Witness accounts detail the horrors of that day, as the missile blew apart their reinforced safe room and left only trails of blood for rescuers to follow. The fatalities included Manar Khatib, 45, Shada, 20, Hala, 13, and their aunt, Manal Khatib, 41. As mourning began, a shocking video circulated online showing Israeli onlookers singing, "May your village burn," revealing not only the brutality of the attack but a troubling sentiment among segments of the Israeli population.

President Isaac Herzog condemned the video, calling it "appalling and disgraceful." Yet, the tragedy underscores more profound grievances within the Arab-majority community of Tamra, where a lack of public bomb shelters has long been an issue. While the neighboring town of Karmiel boasts 126 shelters for its population of 55,000, Tamra's 38,000 residents have no such protection, putting them at increased risk in times of conflict.

Critics argue that systemic disparities in state funding have resulted in inadequate emergency preparedness in Arab communities. While Israeli law mandates that new buildings must include safe rooms, many homes in Tamra lack these vital structures due to strict planning laws that stymie proper construction.

The recent violence has sparked fear among residents, with a new survey indicating that 68% of Arab Israelis oppose the ongoing military actions against Iran, as they feel neglected and marginalized. The community feels the weight of discrimination—a sentiment echoed by local officials like Adel Khatib, who expressed frustration at the unequal distribution of resources.

Adding to the distress is a growing economic divide, with 42.4% of the Arab population living below the poverty line, more than double that of their Jewish counterparts. Past efforts to bridge these gaps through government funding are now threatened by the current right-wing coalition's budget cuts, diminishing hope for meaningful change.

Despite the overwhelming sense of despair, the community continues to gather in solidarity. At a vigil, shared sorrow permeated the air as residents supported one another through drinks and quiet reflection. "We must end this war. We must end it now," Kasem urged, yearning for an end to the hostilities that have struck indiscriminately at the fabric of their lives.

As discussions of policy and safety unfolding within Israeli society gain attention, the need for equitable treatment—particularly in emergency preparedness—remains a pressing concern. The tragedy that struck one family's home speaks volumes about the societal fractures that await repair in the wake of violence.