Saleh al-Arouri

Saleh Muhammad Sulayman al-Arouri, born on August 19, 1966, in 'Arura near Ramallah, was a prominent Palestinian politician and military leader. He rose to prominence as a senior leader of Hamas, serving as the deputy chairman of the Hamas Political Bureau from October 2017 until his assassination in January 2024. Al-Arouri was a founding commander of the Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades and held the position of military commander for Hamas in the West Bank, despite residing in Lebanon at the time of his death.

His academic journey began at Hebron University in 1985, where he studied Islamic Sharia and became the head of the Islamic faction. Al-Arouri's involvement with Hamas began in 1987 during the First Intifada, leading to multiple imprisonments by Israel starting in 1990. His longest incarceration lasted fifteen years, concluding with his release in 2007, after which he was deported to Syria. He later moved to Turkey and ultimately settled in Lebanon in 2015.

Described as a capable and charismatic leader, al-Arouri was known for his shrewdness and extensive connections. He played a crucial role in recruiting members and facilitating funding for Hamas. His strategic influence was evident in the planning of the October 7 attack on Israel and in expanding Hamas' operations within the West Bank.

In 2015, the United States designated him as a terrorist and placed a bounty of five million dollars on his head. Tragically, al-Arouri's life was cut short during the Gaza war in January 2024 due to an Israeli strike. Following his assassination, Zaher Jabarin succeeded him as the leader of Hamas in the West Bank.