Tragedy Strikes an Asylum Seeker in Israel

Adam Barima, a Darfurian refugee who found sanctuary in Israel roughly 15 years ago, became one of the victims during the October 7 massacre in Sderot, Israel. Barima was shot dead on the streets by Hamas terrorists, highlighting the ongoing violence that plagues both his homeland and his place of refuge.

Why This Matters

The killing of Adam Barima is not only a tragedy in itself but also a stark reminder of the genocidal nature of the forces at play both in the Middle East and in Sudan’s Darfur region. It draws attention to the parallels between the actions of Hamas and the Janjawid militia, and their systematic approach to ethnic and racial violence.

The Janjawid Terror

For two decades, Darfur has been ravaged by the Janjawid, a militia group notorious for their ruthless attacks on villages, resulting in the death of thousands, and the displacement of countless more. Similar to the tactics of terror used by Hamas, the Janjawid militia carries out well-planned attacks that result in genocide. The recent resurgence of violence in Darfur only emphasizes the international community’s failure to address these atrocities.

Israel and Darfur: A Comparative Context

Though some may argue that the comparison between the military capabilities of Israel and the plight of Darfur is inequitable, such views overlook the complexities of geopolitical dynamics. Groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, supported by Iran, possess significant military strength and act with genocidal intent, much like the Janjawid. The comparison underscores the shared experience of targeted groups regardless of their geographical location.

The Shared Experience of Violence

Adam Barima’s death signifies the indiscriminate nature of terror. Whether in Darfur or Sderot, the intent to instill fear and exert control through violence remains consistent. The documentary The Devil Came on Horseback has previously depicted the Darfur genocide, and for Barima and many others, the devil now arrives on motorcycles and trucks, showing that terror knows no boundaries.

Conclusion

The loss of Adam Barima is a somber reminder of the global silence on genocidal acts and the importance of acknowledging and combating such violence wherever it occurs. As an advocate for Israel and humanity, recognizing these parallels is crucial in the fight against terror and genocide.

This story was first published on jpost.com.