Love Story from Gaza

A recent art installation on Governors Island has sparked considerable discussion, particularly due to its focus on anti-Semitism and Hamas. The artist behind this piece, Rebecca Goyette, has revealed an unusual personal story stemming from an online relationship with a dentist in Gaza.

Goyette shared her experiences in an article where she described her connection with Momin Zahar, a pediatric dentist, which began in April of the previous year. Their bond, she notes, developed through humorous exchanges, including quirky “vampire dentist jokes.” She recounted how things escalated to the point where they exchanged romantic emojis and playful banter.

In her writing, she quoted Zahar stating, “You are my soul,” to which she responded, “You are my heartbeat.” Goyette’s art includes figures like a road sign saying “Fk Israel Ln” and a poster described as “lover of Hamas.”

It was through a compliment about a pro-Palestinian quilt she created that Zahar first reached out to her. They quickly found themselves chatting regularly, feeling an immediate connection. She shared that Zahar revealed to her that his dental practice and home were bombed in late October of 2023.

Known for his light-hearted humor and caring nature, locals regard him fondly. He often shares stories about children overcoming their fear of dental visits. Their friendship, which started with casual conversations, soon evolved into a romantic relationship.

Goyette reflected on how their occupations—hers in art and his in dentistry—felt surprisingly similar as their world became increasingly chaotic. “We felt strength and trust in each other amid upheaval,” she wrote.

As their relationship deepened, Zahar started calling her a “revolutionary” due to her artistic efforts to support Palestine. She acknowledged his pride in her work while expressing her own feelings of inadequacy: “Why can’t I do more?”

He demonstrates care in small gestures, often asking, “Have you eaten?” To a message she sent expressing concern over the ongoing conflict, he replied, urging her to treat herself to a rose with the money raised for charitable efforts.

Her response was affectionate as well, stating she received a lovely red rose which she placed on her altar to pray for their wellbeing.

Zahar has not yet commented on this story.