Natan and Ranana Meir, the husband and eldest daughter of Dafna Meir, an Israeli woman who was murdered by a Palestinian terrorist in January, addressed the United Nations Security Council on Monday.
Reading from a prepared speech, Dafna’s eldest daughter Ranana spoke first, saying, “I never intentionally harmed another person. It never occurred to me to mistreat another human being just because she looks or thinks differently.”
“I have never taken out my frustrations on people who have done something to me. I was not raised that way, I was raised to love the other, to respect all people, to love unconditionally and to see each and every person as a human being,” Renana said.
She explained that three months ago her mother was murdered when a Palestinian teenager came into their home and stabbed her mother to death in front of her and her siblings.
“It is hard to express in words how deep the pain is, how unbearable the longing is for my mother and how this longing breaks my heart and soul.”
Still, she said, “I do not hate or support hatred. No amount of frustration justifies hurting another person. With a broken heart we come here today to ask for your help. Help us create peace through love and help us all to see that there is good in everyone.”
Natan spoke after his daughter, saying, “Nineteen years ago today, I met my wife Dafna, the mother of my children, for the very first time.”
“Three months ago, on Sunday, January 17, a 15 year old Palestinian came into my home and stabbed my dear wife to death in front of our children with a knife. In my life I always try to find ways to sanctify life and to practice faith, tolerance and love,” he said.
“I believe in my heart that our creator gave the children of Abraham the opportunity to live together in our holy land. I will be patient even if it takes generations.”
“In my heart I have love for my Arab neighbours and I know that most of them want to live together in peace in the land that is holy to us.”
“I want to say to the international community, let us build bridges instead of tensions. Let us encourage, instead of condemn. Instead of incitement, let us create love. Politics alone is not enough. Meetings between people, these are things that will lead to true peace.”
He finished, “I ask you, leaders of the world, to spend faith, tolerance and love. These are the characteristics needed to grow the flower of peace.”
