Prominent Gazan journalist: 'If these words reach you, Israel succeeded in killing me'
In his will, al-Sharif reflects on a life dedicated to bearing witness to the suffering of his people, from the streets of Jabalia refugee camp where he grew up to the frontline of the Gaza aggression. Despite facing pain, loss, and continuous threats, he vowed never to distort the truth or silence the voices of the oppressed.
Addressing his readers, he wrote: "If these words reach you, know that Israel succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice."
Al-Sharif entrusted his love for Palestine and its people to those who read his message, especially its children - innocent victims of relentless bombardment and violence. He urged others not to be silenced by restrictions or borders but to become bridges toward liberation and dignity for their homeland.
He also left personal messages to his family - his beloved wife, Bayan, his daughter Sham, and his son Salah - asking for their care and strength after his passing.
Concluding with a prayer, he expressed faith in justice beyond this life: "If I die, I die steadfast on principle, content with God's judgment, believing in meeting Him, and certain that what God has is better and everlasting."
Anas al-Sharif's final words are a poignant reminder of the courage and humanity of journalists risking everything to tell the truth amid war and oppression.
"This is my will, my final message.
If my words reach you, know that Israel succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice.
Peace and mercy of God be upon you all.
God knows that I gave all my effort and strength to be a support and voice for my people, ever since I opened my eyes to life in the alleys and streets of Jabalia refugee camp. My hope was that God would grant me a long life to return with my family and loved ones to our hometown, Ashkelon (Al-Majdal), which remains occupied. But God's will was swifter, and His judgment decisive.
I lived the pain in all its details and tasted loss again and again. Yet I never hesitated to convey the truth as it is, without falsification or distortion, hoping that God would witness those who stayed silent, those who accepted our killing, those who suffocated our breaths, and whose hearts were unmoved by the scattered remains of our children and women, and who did not stop the massacre our people have suffered for over a year and a half.
I entrust Palestine to you; the jewel of the Muslim crown and the pulse of every free heart in this world.
I entrust its people and its oppressed little children, who were not given a chance to dream or live in safety and peace. Their pure bodies were crushed by thousands of tons of Israeli bombs and rockets, torn apart, and scattered on the walls.
I urge you not to let chains silence you, nor borders restrain you. Be bridges toward liberating the land and its people until the sun of dignity and freedom rises over our stolen land.
I entrust my family to you with kindness.
I entrust you with the apple of my eye, my beloved daughter Sham, whom I did not live long enough to see grow as I dreamed.
I entrust you with my dear son Salah, whom I wished to be a support and companion on the path until he grows strong, carrying my burdens and continuing the mission.
I entrust you with my beloved mother, whose prayers brought me this far. Her prayers were my fortress, and her light my path. I pray God to strengthen her heart and reward her greatly on my behalf.
I also entrust you with my lifelong companion, my beloved wife, Umm Salah Bayan. War separated us for long days and months, but she remained steadfast, like an olive tree trunk that does not bend; patient and faithful. She carried the trust in my absence with strength and faith.
I urge you to stand by them and be their support after God Almighty.
If I die, I die steadfast on principle, content with God's judgment, believing in meeting Him, and certain that what God has is better and everlasting.
O God, accept me among the martyrs, forgive my past and future sins, and make my blood a light that illuminates the path of freedom for my people and family.
Forgive me if I have fallen short, and pray for my mercy, for I have remained true to my pledge, never changing or abandoning it.
Do not forget Gaza…
And do not forget me in your sincere prayers for forgiveness and acceptance.
Anas Jamal Al-Sharif
April 6, 2025"
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