The Shaheed Anas al Sharif

On Sunday, 10 August 2025, Anas Jamal Mahmoud Al‑Sharif, the respected 28-year-old Palestinian journalist working with Al Jazeera, was assassinated in an Israeli airstrike, alongside four other gallant journalists, as they reported from northern Gaza.

Although he had the opportunity to leave Gaza and seek safety in Doha, Qatar, Anas’s principles compelled him to stay and continue revealing to the world the brutal truth of what was unfolding in Gaza. Day after day, he stood fearlessly in front of his camera, documenting the suffering and resilience of his people in the face of relentless tyranny and occupation. In doing so, Israel killed him — targeting not just a journalist, but a voice that refused to be silenced.

Anas joined the ranks of thousands of Palestinians who have been martyred (shuhadā) in what many around the world recognise as an unfolding genocide in Gaza.

It has been more than a week since his death, and what remains remarkable is how Anas’s courage and sincerity have transcended borders. He is mourned and honoured by Muslims and non-Muslims, Palestinians and non-Palestinians alike. This reminds us that there is something in the human spirit, a natural pull toward justice and truth — that responds to those who stand for what is right, and the words of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ help us understand this phenomenon:

“When Allah loves a servant, He calls Jibril (Angel Gabriel) and says: ‘I love so-and-so, so love him.’ So Jibril loves him and then announces to the inhabitants of the heavens: ‘Indeed, Allah loves so-and-so, so love him.’ Then the love of him is placed in the hearts of the people on Earth.” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī / Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim]

The outpouring of love and grief for Anas from all parts of the globe, irrespective of ethnicity and faith, reflects this divine statement.

Anas’ death has become a symbol of resistance, truth and moral clarity in an age where both are under sustained attack. His legacy will live on, not only in the footage he so bravely captured, but in the hearts of millions who continue
to speak his name, pray for him, and take inspiration from his courage.

May Allah ﷻ accept our brother Anas Jamal Mahmoud Al‑Sharif among the shuhadā’, forgive his sins, and elevate his rank in Jannah al‑Firdaws. Ameen.

Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūn.