A Joyful Reunion
Inside a house that showed signs of destruction, Attaf embraced her children and sisters for the first time in two years. The walls of their house had been demolished by the Israeli occupation forces about a year and a half ago. A large group of people gathered to congratulate the Jaradat family on the release of Attaf, who was freed as part of a prisoner exchange deal between Hamas and Israel.
Attaf's Journey
Attaf's story began when she was arrested by the Israeli occupation forces from her home in the town of Silat al-Harithiya, west of the city of Jenin, two years ago. She was accused of covering up her sons' involvement in a shooting incident near the Homesh settlement, south of Jenin, in which an Israeli settler was killed. After a long and harsh investigation, she was sentenced to two years in prison.
Harsh Detention Conditions
During her imprisonment, Attaf faced difficult conditions. Her three children and her brother were also in prison. She received news of her house being demolished, which was devastating for her. She had lived in that house for many years and it held precious memories of her children.
Meeting Her Children in Court
One of the hardest moments for Attaf was seeing her children in court. She couldn't hug them or even talk to them. She would scream in the courtroom to let them hear her voice and try to strengthen their resolve. It was heartbreaking for her to be so close to them but not be able to touch them.
Ramla Prison Experience
During her arrest, Attaf was transferred to the Ramla prison clinic. She witnessed the suffering of sick prisoners and the abuse they faced from the occupation forces. The conditions were unbearable, with small cells and limited access to basic needs.
Oppression and Abuse
After the start of the aggression against Gaza, Attaf and other female prisoners in Damoun Prison faced even more oppression and abuse. They were beaten, sprayed with pepper gas, and had their belongings taken away. Attaf herself was isolated for three days and experienced violence from the jailers.
A Message of Hope
Despite the hardships, Attaf's release brought joy to her and her family. They pray for victory and relief for their people and hope for a peaceful future.
