In October 2023, Hamas commemorated the 194th day of its ongoing war against Israel. As they honored this milestone, the organization also took time to remember the former leader of Hamas, Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi. He was killed by Israeli military in 2004. Despite his death, Hamas is still actively involved in politics and continues to fight for their cause.
Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi was born on October 23, 1947, in what is now Yavneh, south of Tel Aviv. He grew up with 11 siblings and his family fled to the Gaza Strip in 1948. After completing his education and becoming a certified pediatrician, al-Rantisi became active in politics and played a significant role in founding the Islamic movement Hamas in 1987.
Throughout his life, al-Rantisi faced multiple incarcerations by both Israeli and Palestinian authorities due to his involvement in Hamas and his outspoken views against collaboration with Israel. Despite being under house arrest at times, he continued to advocate for the uncompromising struggle against Israel and coordinated militant actions within Hamas. In 2003, he refused to negotiate with the Palestinian Authority government.
Although there are no public events scheduled in Gaza to mark this occasion on April 17th, when Hamas commemorates the 20th anniversary of Abd al-Aziz al-Rantisi’s death, they are celebrating it through publications on their websites and social media platforms. The ongoing war initiated by Hamas continues for the 194th day keeping residents preoccupied and unable to focus on remembering him fully.
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