In an unfortunate incident that highlights the devastating consequences of conflict, Hussein, a 32-year-old resident of Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip, lost his life due to an Israeli air raid. The incident occurred in October, when first responders in Khan Younis received a distressing call about the nearby raid. Sayyed Mohammed Abu Jamei, along with his colleagues, immediately rushed to the site to search for survivors amidst the rubble. Tragically, Sayyed discovered the lifeless body of his own brother, Hussein.
The heart-wrenching scene unfolded in the early hours of October 24. Sayyed, shocked and grief-stricken, listened as the sound of wailing grew louder, only to realize that it was emanating from himself. Hussein’s mother, his wife Hadeel Abu Abed, and their children hurriedly made their way to the hospital. However, due to the overcrowded morgue, they could only manage a rushed final farewell before Hussein was buried. Sayyed shared the heartbreaking details, revealing that his mother longed to kiss her son goodbye but was unable to do so amidst the chaotic crowd.
Describing his brother, Sayyed emphasized Hussein’s decency, level-headedness, and politeness. At just 32 years old, Hussein was taken from his family by an Israeli missile that struck a residential neighborhood in southern Khan Younis, where he sought shelter with friends and extended family members. Hussein had dreams of paying off loans, building a small apartment above his parents’ house, and eventually purchasing land to construct a larger home for his wife, three children, and unborn baby. He yearned for his children to have a place where they could create cherished memories.
To support his aspirations, Hussein worked tirelessly as a driver, taking on odd jobs throughout the besieged Gaza Strip. Sayyed reminisced about his brother’s magnetic personality, explaining how people were naturally drawn to him due to his ease and calm demeanor. Twenty days before his untimely death, Hussein had taken his pregnant wife and children to stay with his in-laws further south in the strip. Despite the physical separation, Hussein remained deeply connected to his family. He would frequently visit them, including his parents in the al-Zana district, despite the risks involved.
Hussein’s love for his wife Hadeel was immeasurable. Sayyed shared that Hussein cherished and respected her, always striving to provide everything she needed. The birth of each of their children brought immense joy to Hussein, who would distribute sweets in the neighborhood to share his happiness. Sayyed also highlighted Hussein’s special bond with his kids, emphasizing how he prioritized spending time with them and engaging in activities they enjoyed. Even playing with them in the street was not beneath him.
The separation from his children during their time apart weighed heavily on Hussein’s heart. He made every effort to see them as often as possible, including the day before his tragic death. Additionally, he regularly checked on his parents, maintaining a warm and loving relationship with them and his siblings. Hussein’s commitment to his children’s education was unwavering, as he aspired for them to excel academically, affectionately calling them “Dr. Abdallah” and “Dr. Hoda.”
When asked about Hussein’s wife, Sayyed expressed despair, stating that she reacted like any other person who has lost a loved one. With a somber and exhausted demeanor, Sayyed pondered what his brother would have wanted if he had survived. Hussein did not have grand ambitions; rather, he simply desired contentment, a decent life, and most importantly, peace.
This article was produced in collaboration with Egab.
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