Death of Fouad Al-Shoubaki: A Symbol of Palestinian Resistance
Fouad Al-Shoubaki, known as the 'Sheikh of Palestinian prisoners', passed away at the age of 84 in Ramallah, more than a year after his release from Israeli prisons. His death has been mourned by the Palestinian presidency and various institutions dedicated to prisoner rights. President Mahmoud Abbas expressed his condolences, highlighting Al-Shoubaki's lifelong commitment to the Palestinian cause and his role as a defender of their rights.
Al-Shoubaki spent 17 years in Israeli prisons, where he became a symbol of resilience and struggle for Palestinian prisoners. His legacy as a national fighter was recognized by the Palestinian National Liberation Movement (Fatah), which described him as a pioneer of the fedayeen movement and a significant figure in the contemporary Palestinian revolution. Fatah announced that his funeral would take place at the Palestinian presidential headquarters, followed by prayers at Al-Ain Mosque in Al-Bireh, and burial at the old cemetery there.
A Life Marked by Struggle and Resilience
Born in 1940 in Gaza City, Al-Shoubaki was educated in the Gaza Strip before becoming involved in political and military activities that led to his repeated arrests by Israeli forces. In 2006, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his alleged role in the Karine A arms ship case, which Israel claimed was intended to supply weapons to Palestinians. His sentence was later reduced to 17 years, during which he became known for his steadfastness despite suffering from chronic health issues due to the harsh conditions of his imprisonment.
Al-Shoubaki's involvement in the Palestinian National Council and his close ties to the late Yasser Arafat further solidified his status as a key figure in Palestinian politics. His passing is seen as a significant loss for both the Palestinian people and the prisoners who looked up to him as a model of resistance.
