Al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif, 28, was among five journalists killed in an Israeli strike near Gaza City’s Al-Shifa Hospital. Hours after his death, a pre-written message, described as his last will and testament, appeared on social media, reportedly posted by a friend once his killing was confirmed.
“This is my last will and testament, my final message. If these words reach you, know that Israel has succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice,” the post began. Al-Sharif wrote that he had dedicated his life to being a support and voice for his people since his childhood in the Jabalia refugee camp.
While expressing hope that he could one day return to his family in occupied Ashkelon (al-Majdal), he accepted that God’s will was supreme. He recalled enduring repeated pain and loss but never hesitating to convey the truth as it is, without falsification or distortion.
Al-Sharif Slammed Those Who Remained Silent On Palestinian Suffering
The journalist condemned those who 'remained silent' in the face of Palestinian suffering and urged Gazans not to be silenced by restrictions or borders. “Be bridges toward the liberation of the country and its people, so that the sun of dignity and freedom may shine upon our usurped homeland,” he wrote.
Al-Sharif’s message included a personal plea to care for his wife, son, daughter, whom he had not yet seen grow up, and his mother. “If I die, I die steadfast in my principles… Do not forget Gaza. And do not forget me in your righteous prayers for forgiveness and acceptance,” he concluded.
Alongside al-Sharif, fellow Al Jazeera correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher, Moamen Aliwa, and Mohammed Noufal were killed. While announcing the news, an Al Jazeera anchor fought back tears reporting on the deaths of his colleagues.
Israel Says, 'Al-Sharif Was Head Of Hamas Terror Cell'
Shortly after the strike, the Israeli military confirmed targeting the group, alleging al-Sharif was 'the head of a Hamas terrorist cell' involved in planning rocket attacks. “Intelligence and documents from Gaza… prove he was a Hamas operative integrated into Al Jazeera,” the Israel Defense Forces claimed in a statement on X.
The Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate denounced the killings, calling them a bloody crime and an assassination. Al Jazeera has accused Israel of deliberately targeting its staff throughout the conflict.
