Homage Paid to Martyr Abu Hamza, Spokesperson for Islamic Jihad and Symbol of the Resistance Movement

Since Tuesday, a photograph captured in 2023 has been making rounds on social media, depicting a dashing young man dressed in an elegant black suit paired with a red tie. The image, which has garnered considerable attention, shows him flashing a modest smile towards the wedding photographer.

Just days following the wedding photo session, the same individual was broadcasted on television screens across the globe, donning a green camouflage military uniform with his face obscured by a black cloth.

Once characterized by a shy smile, his demeanor evolved into one of firm resolve as he spoke, capturing the world’s attention.

Naji Abu Saif, widely recognized by his alias Abu Hamza, gained significant recognition following the notable Al Aqsa Storm Operation on October 7, 2023. This event highlighted vulnerabilities within the Israeli regime and its extensively publicized military and intelligence capabilities.

The military spokesperson for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a figure renowned for articulating the group’s resistance efforts, was killed on Tuesday during an Israeli airstrike targeting the central Gaza Strip.

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine has officially reported the death of their leader, Naji Abu Saif, also known as Abu Hamza, who served as the spokesperson for Al-Quds Brigades, the movement’s military division. According to their statement, Abu Saif was killed in an attack by military forces that they described as treacherous, which also impacted members of his and his brother’s families. The movement extended this announcement to the Palestinian community as well as to the Arab and Islamic nations.

Abu Hamza was renowned as a prominent figure in the resistance movement, recognized for his articulate communication, unwavering truthfulness, and bold defense of the rights of his people. According to the statement, he maintained an unyielding dedication to the cause throughout his life.

Abu Hamza has been identified as the official spokesperson for the resistance movement.

In 2014, Abu Hamza assumed the role of spokesperson for the military wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), known as the Al-Quds Brigades. Renowned for his regular media briefings, he quickly became a prominent figure as he delivered the organization’s strategic communications and messages to both Palestinian and global audiences. His statements were eagerly awaited, reflecting the sentiments and positions of the resistance movement.

In May 2021, a video featuring Abu Hamza emerged, causing significant reverberations throughout the occupied territories. In the video, Abu Hamza issued a stark warning to Israel, highlighting the advanced military capabilities of the resistance group.

The military has announced that its missile capabilities have extended to reach Hadera and Tel Aviv during the recent campaign. This development follows the introduction of new and advanced missile technology into its arsenal, notably featuring the newly deployed “advanced Qasem” missile.

In June 2021, in the aftermath of Operation Sword of Al-Quds, Abu Hamza declared that the Al-Quds Brigades would persist in launching attacks on Israeli occupation sites as needed, asserting that “the Palestinian resistance will remain steadfast in the face of any pressure or threats.”

In the wake of Israel’s military offensive against the Gaza Strip in August 2022, a spokesperson, Abu Hamza, announced that the rocket prowess exhibited by the resistance faction represented merely a fraction of their prepared arsenal. This statement came three days into the escalated hostilities, underscoring the group’s potential for enhanced military engagements.

In the wake of the Al Aqsa Storm, Abu Hamza has made regular appearances in video broadcasts, delivering updates on the latest political and military developments in Gaza.

According to a spokesperson for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Al Aqsa Storm operation has been characterized as the “most extensive and successful complex qualitative action in the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict.”

Abu Hamza delivered a poignant address following the success of the operation, stating, “We commenced this journey with faith in God, having left our homes, families, and belongings, acutely conscious of the significant responsibility we bear for our people.”

On October 15, 2023, Abu Hamza released a statement that challenged the widely held belief in the invulnerability of the Zionist military forces.

In a recent statement, remarks have surfaced emphasizing a defiant stance against adversaries. The message challenges opponents to consider engaging directly, stating that there are individuals reportedly ready to sacrifice their lives for their cause. The tone suggests a combative outlook, describing an environment akin to “welcome to Hell” for those who confront them.

In March 2024, Abu Hamza delivered a significant address to the Arab world, emphasizing the profound importance of Palestine to the Muslim community.

The message is a call to action for Arabs, emphasizing that the contested land is historically and religiously significant Arab Palestinian territory, as referenced in the Quran’s Surat Al-Isra. It urges the community to actively participate in its reclamation, equating the struggle for the land with religious observance, and asserts that neglecting the plight of Muslims is contrary to Islamic principles.

Abu Hamza has extended his appreciation to the Palestinian population for their steadfastness amidst what he described as Israel’s genocidal conflict in Gaza. This ongoing confrontation has resulted in nearly 50,000 casualties since October 2023.

He praised the unwavering bravery of the people, whose sacrifices have crafted an inspiring narrative. He called for the unity and solidarity of the populace in these challenging times, emphasizing that this phase will conclude only with the defeat of the opposing forces.

Addressing the resilient populace who have withstood immense hardships, the speaker assured them that their pain and suffering are deeply felt. They expressed confidence that triumph is imminent, with divine support.

In December 2023, Abu Hamza announced that the Al-Quds Brigade was actively involved in urban combat against Israeli military forces in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of numerous Israeli soldiers.

In a defiant stance, leaders have declared a steadfast commitment to continuing their struggle, emphasizing that surrender is not an option regardless of the duration of the conflict. The current situation, they assert, extends beyond traditional objectives such as ending resistance or liberating captives, evolving into a broader confrontation involving the Palestinian populace and their Resistance movement.

A spokesperson for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad has highlighted what they claim to be vulnerabilities within the Israeli military, bringing attention to these issues on an international stage.

In recent weeks, a series of targeted sniper operations have been executed against enemy combatants and snipers amid ongoing incursions, Abu Hamza reported in June 2024. The operations have reportedly resulted in the disabling and destruction of numerous military vehicles across key locations, including Rafah, Jabalia, Al-Zaytoun, and the periphery of the central governorate. The assaults utilized tandem shells, high-explosive barrel bombs, and Ababil missiles, highlighting a strategic escalation in the conflict.

The spokesperson announced that 11 Israeli aircraft, comprising ‘SkyLark’ drones, ‘Quadcopters,’ and various other intelligence and reconnaissance units, were successfully brought down in the conflict zone over the Gaza Strip.

Abu Hamza reaffirmed the resilience of the resistance forces, asserting they are in “strong condition.” He also pledged that the ongoing attrition would compel the occupying forces to withdraw from Gaza.

In a statement released on July 6, 2024, the speaker addressed the spiritual resilience underpinning the resistance movement against what is described as the Zionist occupation.

The resistance movement, though limited in equipment and manpower, draws significant strength from its moral and ideological foundations. These elements serve as a source of motivation and spiritual fortitude, enabling the group to confront adversaries with remarkable composure and bravery.

In his recent video addresses, he underscored the notion that the Palestinian resistance is currently engaged in a critical existential struggle in both Gaza and the West Bank. He asserted with conviction that the resistance’s victory is an inevitable outcome.

Abu Hamza affirmed the unwavering dedication of the resistance group to the Palestinian cause on July 16, 2024, declaring their resolve to remain steadfast in the face of any adversity. He stated that even if the sun were placed in their right hand and the moon in their left, they would not abandon Al-Quds, Gaza, Palestine, or any part of their cherished homeland until they reclaim their land or sacrifice their lives in the attempt.

During the same video address, he discussed the potential and capabilities of the resistance groups.

Abu Hamza declared that their forces are currently involved in highly intricate urban warfare operations, for which they have extensively trained and prepared, aligning their strategies with available capabilities and resources. He emphasized that these efforts are producing successful outcomes in each military engagement they undertake.

The adversary is aware that prolonged conflict in Gaza will not lead to the fulfillment of its aims. Our arsenal, diverse in both equipment and type, is vast and difficult to quantify. Moreover, our capacity for innovation and manufacturing under the most challenging conditions remains intact.

Earlier this year, Abu Hamza issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Palestinians have readied a “generation awakened to confront their adversaries, regardless of the duration required.”

He highlighted the dangers and threats confronting the Zionist regime, urging the international community to recognize Israel’s desperation. He questioned the rationale behind deploying thousands of troops to a small city and launching American missiles to bombard homes, mosques, churches, and universities.

“However, the efforts have neither succeeded in quelling our resistance nor in securing the release of its prisoners, and have resulted only in widespread destruction and devastation.”

In the aftermath of Iran’s military operation, True Promise 2, in response to actions by the Israeli regime, the spokesperson for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) conveyed appreciation towards the Islamic Republic of Iran.

He extended greetings to Iran, acknowledging the nation’s role in diminishing the occupier’s prestige on the streets of Tel Aviv through the execution of operations ‘True Promise I and II,’ he stated.

Abu Hamza stated that the Axis of Resistance has acted in defense of 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide. He emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided comprehensive support to the Palestinian people through all available resources.

On January 21, he extended his appreciation to Hezbollah and Yemen, commending their steadfast support and recognizing their contributions to the ongoing fight against occupation forces.

In a formal declaration, an expression of solidarity has been extended to the members of Hezbollah, with a particular acknowledgment of the respected leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. The message also pays homage to martyred individuals within the organization, acknowledging both its leaders and fighters.

Abu Hamza declared that the Palestinian resistance is actively confronting the “occupation” in collaboration with allies from Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran, representing the broader interests of 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide. He emphasized that both religious and national obligations compelled them to oppose the occupation using all available methods, placing their trust in divine guidance.

In a statement praising Yemen’s consistent backing of Palestinian resistance efforts, spokesperson Abu Hamza recognized the support from Yemen and its leader Sayyed Abdulmalik al-Houthi. He commended Yemen for deploying missiles and drones targeting the core of the adversarial entity.

In the wake of reports confirming the death of Abu Hamza, the spokesperson for the Al-Quds Brigades, digital tributes have poured in from around the globe on the platform X, previously known as Twitter. Users are honoring the memory of the young figure, widely recognized within the organization.

Afghan journalist S. Haidar Hashmi lauded Abu Hamza for his remarkable courage, highlighting his acts of bravery.

The Kandahar-based journalist recently tweeted that Abu Hamza, widely known as a spokesperson, was also a formidable warrior. In addition to his communications role, he frequently joined his compatriots on the front lines in the battle against occupation forces.

Japanese journalist and human rights advocate Thoton Akimoto earned acclaim for his distinctive approach.

Abu Hamza’s unique way of wearing the flag patch, positioned slightly forward rather than centered on his shoulder, captivated many. His fashion statement has inspired others to adopt his style as a tribute. The phrase “Rest in Power” reflects the respect and admiration he commanded.

A statement attributed to the spokesman for the Al-Quds Brigades conveyed a defiant message, declaring, “We will endure while you will fall, a historical lesson and a curse for all generations.” The remarks, reportedly authored by Anesia J., also paid tribute to the late Abu Hamza, describing him as an enduring voice and resolute figure from Gaza.