Daughter visits Syria on anniversary of dad’s beheading by ISIS

Bethany Haines, the daughter of British aid worker David Haines, is determined to locate her father's remains on the 10th anniversary of his execution by ISIS. She plans to travel to Syria, where she has identified potential sites for excavation based on witness testimonies and collaboration with other victims' families. Unlike her uncle Michael, who has come to terms with the possibility that David's remains may never be recovered, Bethany remains resolute in her quest. The traumatic experience of watching her father's beheading in a video released by ISIS has profoundly impacted Bethany. She expresses a strong desire to change the narrative surrounding her father's death, emphasizing his life and contributions rather than the horrific circumstances of his murder. To honor his memory, she is organizing a memorial service in Perth, where David was actively involved in the community. In addition to her efforts in Syria, Bethany plans to attend a trial in France next year involving six ISIS guards connected to her father's death. She aims to submit a victim impact report and hear firsthand the testimonies of those involved. This pursuit is part of her broader mission to ensure that her father's story is remembered for who he was, rather than the violent act that took his life. Bethany's commitment to her father's memory and her determination to seek justice reflect the ongoing impact of terrorism on families and communities. Her journey underscores the importance of remembrance and the fight for accountability in the face of such tragedies.