Located in southern Israel’s Negev desert, the Bedouin village of Khirbet Karkur faces adversity living in tents and makeshift homes amidst sounds of neighboring conflict. With a population of around 300,000 Arab Bedouins in the region, they struggle to integrate into Israeli society, despite some serving in the military.
Living near the Gaza border, the community feels doubly marginalized, lacking proper protection from Hamas rockets and facing state neglect. The unrecognized village lacks basic amenities like schools and hospitals, leaving residents vulnerable during emergencies.
Recent media attention on the release of a villager from Hamas captivity sheds light on the village’s plight. While efforts are made to improve the situation, ongoing demolitions and lack of security measures exacerbate the challenges faced by the Bedouin community.
Despite their Israeli citizenship, the Bedouins continue to feel underrepresented and neglected, calling for equal treatment and support in their daily lives.