Jerusalem News Agency Agencies
Today, Monday, marks the first anniversary of the martyrdom of Jerusalemite teacher Fadi Abu Shkhaydam, who carried out a shooting attack at Bab al-Silsila, near Al-Aqsa Mosque, killing an Israeli soldier and seriously wounding three others.
During the suicide operation he carried out on November 20, 2021, Abu Shkhaydam, dressed in religious Jewish clothing, used a Carlo-type weapon and continued firing for 32 seconds, according to Israeli Minister of Internal Security Omer Barlev.
Abu Shakhdam is considered one of the pioneers and sheikhs of Al-Aqsa Mosque, and one of the most prominent figures who guard its courtyards. He also served as a preacher at a number of mosques in Jerusalem, in addition to being one of the notables, figures, and leaders of the Hamas movement in the Shuafat refugee camp.
Martyr Abu Shakhdam emphasized that defending Al-Aqsa Mosque requires the shedding of blood, emphasizing that we cannot live with dignity and honor while the condition of Al-Aqsa Mosque worsens day by day.
In his handwritten will, dated November 20, 2021, the martyr addressed the people of Jerusalem, saying: “God has chosen you to defend it (Al-Aqsa) and defend the place of your Prophet’s Night Journey, so do not let him down.”
He added: "Know that the solutions to your problems begin with your commitment and your struggle. Your unity lies in your Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the elimination of social and familial problems lies in adjusting the compass towards your blessed mosque."
He stressed that Al-Aqsa Mosque “expects a lot from us, so return your compass and your bond to it.”
The occupation authorities demolished the interior walls of the home of martyr Fadi Abu Shkhaydam in Shuafat refugee camp and sealed its doors with red wax after a demolition order was issued and the appeal submitted by his family against the decision was rejected.