Parents of 2 Women Killed in October 7 Attack Speak Out Amid Ceasefire Negotiations
A South Florida couple, Sigal and Manny Manzuri, are reliving the horror of losing their daughters during the October 7 massacre in Israel. The couple’s daughters, Norelle and Roya, were 25 and 22 years old, respectively, when they were killed in the Nova Music Festival massacre in 2023.
A Call from Hell
Sigal recalls receiving a call from Norelle, who was on the ground, trying to protect herself from the missiles. "We were hoping that they’re kidnapped. Back then, we thought it’s a good option," Sigal said.
The Aftermath
Five days later, the family’s reality changed forever. "And we kept asking, ‘Dead or kidnapped?’ Just you know, say it already," Sigal said. "So they just informed us about Roya, that she is no longer alive, and that minute you feel like everything is gone. You feel like they’re ripping your heart out from your body."
A few days later, while on a Zoom call with President Joe Biden and the families of the others who were taken hostage, Sigal and Manny learned that Norelle wouldn’t make it home either. "This Zoom meeting, we started a quarter to 6 p.m., and at 7 p.m., they knocked on our door again to inform us that Norelle is no longer alive," Sigal said. "Molten lava is actually burning my whole body from head to toe, and nothing’s really left for me."
A Plea for Hope
The current ceasefire deal is scheduled to go into effect Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time, according to mediator Qatar. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel will not proceed until Hamas provides a list of hostages to be freed as part of the deal. As for the Manzuris, they remain full of hope, and they sent a message for the families of those who are still held hostage.
A Message of Hope
"We definitely need hope, and we have to believe that – we have to believe, and we have to hope for better days in Israel, for a better future for our children, for the new generations to come," Sigal said.
Conclusion
As the world awaits the outcome of the ceasefire deal, the Manzuris’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict. Their message of hope is a beacon of light in the darkest of times, and their plea for a better future for their children and future generations is a call to action for all of us.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened to Norelle and Roya Manzuri?
Norelle and Roya were killed in the October 7 massacre in Israel. - How old were Norelle and Roya when they were killed?
Norelle was 25 years old, and Roya was 22 years old. - What is the current status of the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas?
The ceasefire deal is scheduled to go into effect Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time, according to mediator Qatar.
