About Free Gaza Life

Bassem Eid is a prominent Palestinian human rights activist and political analyst known for his work in advocating for the rights of Palestinians. He initially gained recognition as a field researcher for the Israeli human rights organization B'Tselem, where he documented human rights violations in the Palestinian territories. Eid later founded the Palestinian Human Rights Monitoring Group, focusing on human rights abuses by both Israeli and Palestinian authorities.

Eid's activism is characterized by his commitment to non-violence and his efforts to foster dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. He has been an outspoken critic of the Palestinian leadership and has called for accountability and transparency within the Palestinian Authority. Eid's work aims to improve the lives of Palestinians by advocating for their rights and highlighting the need for democratic reforms and peace.

With a significant presence in international forums, Eid shares his insights and experiences to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause. He writes extensively on human rights issues and participates in global discussions, striving to bring attention to the complex realities faced by Palestinians.

Huwaida Arraf is a Palestinian-American lawyer and activist renowned for her work in advocating for Palestinian rights and co-founding the International Solidarity Movement (ISM). Through ISM, Arraf has organized and participated in non-violent protests and actions aimed at raising global awareness about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and supporting Palestinian communities under occupation.

Arraf’s activism is marked by her commitment to non-violent resistance and her efforts to involve international volunteers in solidarity activities. She has been involved in numerous high-profile actions, including the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, which aimed to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza and bring humanitarian aid to the territory.

As a lawyer, Arraf uses her legal expertise to advocate for human rights and justice for Palestinians. She has spoken extensively at international forums, universities, and conferences, emphasizing the importance of international law and human rights in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Arraf’s work has garnered international recognition and support, and she continues to be a leading voice in the movement for Palestinian rights. Her dedication to non-violent activism and legal advocacy has made her an influential figure in the struggle for justice and equality.

Ahmed Eldin is a renowned journalist and activist known for his advocacy of Palestinian rights and his influential presence on social media. Through his journalism, Eldin brings attention to the struggles of Palestinians, highlighting issues of injustice and human rights violations. His work aims to inform and engage a global audience on the Palestinian cause.

Eldin’s powerful storytelling and insightful commentary have made him a respected voice in the media. He uses his platform to shed light on the lived experiences of Palestinians, advocating for their rights and dignity. His efforts include participating in public discussions, creating compelling content, and supporting initiatives that promote justice for Palestinians.

With a strong social media following, Eldin shares impactful stories and calls to action, inspiring his audience to support Palestinian rights and engage in meaningful advocacy. His commitment to raising awareness and fostering understanding has made him a key figure in the fight for Palestinian justice.

Mohammad Jamal Deen is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist renowned for his extensive humanitarian work and advocacy for Palestinian rights. He has served as a medic and rescue swimmer in the Mediterranean Sea, aiding refugees fleeing conflict zones, including many Palestinians. His efforts highlight the plight of Palestinian refugees and the broader humanitarian crisis they face.

Deen is a compelling public speaker, delivering TED Talks and university presentations focused on the refugee crisis and the specific challenges faced by Palestinians. His advocacy emphasizes compassion, love, and kindness, aiming to change perceptions and inspire action to support Palestinian rights.

Through his influential social media presence, Deen shares powerful stories and insights about Palestinian struggles, encouraging his followers to engage in humanitarian efforts and support policies that aid Palestinians. His work is a testament to his commitment to justice and human dignity for Palestinians and all refugees.

Raja Shehadeh is a distinguished Palestinian lawyer, human rights activist, and acclaimed author. He co-founded Al-Haq, a pioneering Palestinian human rights organization, in 1979. His legal work has significantly contributed to documenting human rights abuses in the Palestinian territories and advocating for justice and accountability.

Shehadeh has authored several influential books, including his memoir Strangers in the House and the award-winning Palestinian Walks: Notes on a Vanishing Landscape. His writings offer personal and political insights into the Palestinian experience, addressing the complexities of life under occupation.

His recent memoir, We Could Have Been Friends, My Father and I, reflects on his father's legacy and their shared struggles for Palestinian rights. This work was a finalist for the 2023 National Book Award for Nonfiction.

Issa Amro is a well-known Palestinian human rights activist based in Hebron, West Bank. He is the founder of Youth Against Settlements, an organization dedicated to promoting non-violent resistance against the Israeli occupation and illegal settlements. Amro’s activism focuses on civil disobedience and peaceful protests to highlight the struggles faced by Palestinians under occupation.

Amro has been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights, organizing numerous non-violent demonstrations and documenting human rights violations. His efforts have led to frequent arrests and harassment by both Israeli forces and settlers. In 2016, he faced 18 charges in an Israeli military court, many of which were politically motivated and related to his peaceful activism. Despite these challenges, Amro continues to promote non-violent resistance and remains a prominent voice in the fight for justice and human rights in Palestine.

Amro’s work has garnered international attention and support. He has been recognized by the United Nations and various human rights organizations for his commitment to non-violent activism. However, his efforts have also made him a target for both Israeli and Palestinian authorities, leading to multiple arrests and legal battles.

Laila El-Haddad is an award-winning Palestinian author, social activist, policy analyst, and journalist. She frequently speaks on the situation in Gaza, the intersection of food and politics, and contemporary Islam. El-Haddad has written for numerous publications, including The Washington Post, International Herald Tribune, and The Baltimore Sun. She has appeared on international networks such as NPR, CNN, and Al Jazeera.

El-Haddad is the author of Gaza Mom: Palestine, Politics, Parenting, and Everything In Between and co-author of the acclaimed cookbook The Gaza Kitchen: A Palestinian Culinary Journey, which explores the food heritage of Gaza. She also co-edited the anthology Gaza Unsilenced.

From 2003 to 2007, El-Haddad was the Gaza correspondent for the Al Jazeera English website and a regular contributor to the BBC World Service. Her work provides much-needed insight into the human experience of the region. In 2014, she appeared on Anthony Bourdain's CNN show "Parts Unknown," guiding him through Gaza’s culinary heritage.

El-Haddad holds a B.A. from Duke University and a Master in Public Policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. She resides in Clarksville, Maryland, with her husband and four children.

Mazin Qumsiyeh is a renowned Palestinian scientist, author, and human rights activist. He is the founder and director of the Palestine Museum of Natural History and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University. Qumsiyeh has a rich academic background, having served on the faculties of the University of Tennessee, Duke University, and Yale University before returning to Palestine in 2008.

Qumsiyeh is actively involved in environmental and social causes, focusing on education, empowerment, and sustainability. His initiatives include school programs that develop environmental clubs and promote community projects such as gardening and recycling. He has led numerous projects aimed at protecting endangered ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.

As a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights, Qumsiyeh has been involved in various political and social movements. He co-founded the Palestine Right to Return Coalition and has been a part of numerous organizations advocating for justice and equality. He has been arrested multiple times for his activism and continues to be a prominent voice in the struggle for Palestinian human rights.

Qumsiyeh has authored several books, including Sharing the Land of Canaan and Popular Resistance in Palestine: A History of Hope and Empowerment. His work and contributions have been recognized internationally, earning him several awards for his efforts in promoting solidarity and sustainability.

Dr. Carlos Tortta is an Argentinian surgeon and member of Doctors Without Borders who has dedicated significant efforts to providing medical care in Gaza. He has worked extensively at Al Shifa hospital, treating numerous patients injured in the conflict.

Dr. Tortta's humanitarian work is driven by his commitment to helping those in need, particularly in war-torn regions. He has witnessed and addressed immense suffering, making substantial contributions to the health and well-being of Gazans.

In addition to his medical work, Dr. Tortta advocates for improved healthcare infrastructure and international support for Gaza. His experiences underscore the urgent need for humanitarian aid and medical assistance in the region.

Dilara Karasakiz is a Turkish architect who has dedicated her efforts to humanitarian missions in Gaza. She is involved in initiatives to rebuild homes and infrastructure destroyed by conflict, working to improve living conditions for the people of Gaza.

Karasakiz is part of a broader effort to support the reconstruction of Gaza, helping to restore a decent standard of living for its residents. Her work focuses on creating sustainable and resilient communities, ensuring that Gazans have access to safe and stable housing.

Her dedication to humanitarian work is driven by a commitment to justice and human rights, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding not just structures but also hope and dignity for those affected by the ongoing conflict.

Ahed Tamimi is a prominent Palestinian activist known for her courageous stand against the Israeli occupation. Born on January 31, 2001, in Nabi Saleh, a village in the West Bank, Tamimi gained international recognition as a teenager when videos of her confronting Israeli soldiers went viral.

Her activism began at a young age, influenced by her family's involvement in protests against the occupation. Tamimi became a symbol of Palestinian resistance and resilience, advocating for her people's rights through non-violent means. She has been arrested several times, most notably in December 2017, when she was detained for slapping an Israeli soldier. Her arrest and subsequent trial drew widespread international attention and condemnation.

After serving eight months in prison, Tamimi continued her activism, speaking out against human rights violations and advocating for the freedom and dignity of Palestinians. She has inspired many around the world with her bravery and unwavering commitment to justice.

Janna Jihad is one of the youngest journalists in the world, known for her fearless reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Born on April 6, 2006, in the village of Nabi Saleh in the West Bank, Janna began documenting the struggles of her people when she was just seven years old.

Her activism was inspired by the killing of her cousin, Mustafa Tamimi, during a protest. Using her mother's smartphone, Janna started recording and sharing videos of protests and the daily challenges faced by Palestinians living under occupation. Her reports have garnered international attention, highlighting the voices of Palestinian children and their families.

Janna's work as a citizen journalist aims to bring global awareness to the plight of Palestinians. Despite her young age, she has faced threats and intimidation, yet she remains determined to continue her work. She has been featured in various media outlets and has spoken at international forums about the importance of children's rights and freedom of expression.