Raed al-Sharif

Their life

Personal Background:
Name: Raed al-Sharif
Birthdate: February 20, 1966
Birthplace: Al-Sila Al-Harithiya, near Jenin, West Bank
Early Activism:
At age 17, Raed was arrested for raising the Palestinian flag atop a utility pole, marking the beginning of his involvement in Palestinian activism.
Imprisonment:
Raed was detained in 1989 and sentenced to two life terms plus 20 years. He became known as the longest-serving prisoner from the Jenin Governorate.
Release:
He was released in January 2025 after 36 years in Israeli prisons, as part of a ceasefire agreement.
Post-Release:
Upon release, Raed expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his parents during his imprisonment, reflecting on his longing to be with them in their final years.

Early Life and Activism: Raed al-Sharif was born on February 20, 1966, in Al-Sila Al-Harithiya, a village near Jenin in the West Bank. From an early age, Raed was drawn to Palestinian activism, driven by the political climate and the oppressive conditions Palestinians faced under Israeli occupation. At the age of 17, he made a bold statement of defiance by raising the Palestinian flag on a utility pole, a symbolic act of resistance that led to his arrest. This was just the beginning of his journey as a political prisoner, setting the stage for decades of incarceration.

Imprisonment: In 1989, Raed was arrested by Israeli forces and sentenced to two life terms plus 20 years. His crime was linked to his involvement in resistance activities during the First Intifada, a mass uprising against Israeli rule in the Palestinian territories. As a young man in his prime, his life was interrupted by years of imprisonment, marking a significant period of suffering and loss. Raed became a symbol of resilience and endurance, and over the years, he became known as the longest-serving Palestinian prisoner from the Jenin Governorate. During his time in prison, Raed maintained a strong connection to his heritage, his family, and his people, despite the severe conditions he endured.

Life in Prison: Throughout his imprisonment, Raed faced harsh conditions in Israeli detention centers. Despite being isolated from his community, he never wavered in his commitment to the Palestinian cause. His determination and resilience in the face of adversity made him an inspiration to many. He continued to fight for his freedom and the rights of Palestinians, even behind bars. His prison experience deeply shaped his views on justice, human rights, and the struggle for Palestinian liberation.

Release and Reflection: In January 2025, after 36 years in Israeli prisons, Raed was finally released as part of a ceasefire agreement. His release was widely celebrated, but it was also bittersweet. Raed had spent over three decades separated from his family, and during that time, he lost both of his parents. He spoke of the immense pain and sorrow he felt at not being able to be with them during their final years, an emotional loss that deeply affected him.

Despite these personal tragedies, Raed’s release marked a moment of hope and renewal. He was embraced by his family, friends, and the broader Palestinian community, who celebrated his return as a victory, not just for him, but for the countless other Palestinians who had endured similar fates.

Legacy and Continued Struggle: Raed al-Sharif's release marked a new chapter in his life, but his legacy as a political prisoner and symbol of resistance continues to resonate with many Palestinians. His story is not just one of survival but also of steadfast commitment to the cause of justice. He represents the countless individuals who have endured hardships in the struggle for freedom and dignity.

While Raed’s time in prison has ended, the broader struggle for Palestinian rights and self-determination remains. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought for the rights of their people, often at great personal cost. Raed's life continues to inspire those who seek justice and equality in Palestine and beyond.

Personal Life: Specific details about Raed's personal life, such as his marital status and religious background, remain largely private. However, like many Palestinians, Raed's identity is deeply intertwined with his heritage, his faith, and his commitment to his people. His long years of imprisonment have been marked by a sense of duty to his family and his community, and his release brought him back to the heart of Palestinian society, where his resilience and struggle continue to be a source of pride and inspiration.

How they died

killed by Israeli forces

killed by attack

A plea from the family

The surviving family members of Raed al-Sharif have experienced immense emotional and personal hardship due to his prolonged imprisonment. His father, Sobhi al-Sharif, and his mother, Najah al-Sharif, both suffered deeply during his years of incarceration. Raed's father, a well-respected figure in their community, had hoped for many years that his son would return home, but sadly passed away without being able to see him free. His mother also passed away during his imprisonment, further deepening the pain of his absence.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Raed al-Sharif, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources