He is known to be the founder of the tunnels made by the Israelis under the Al-Aqsa mosque, which is part of their excavation work in order to ruin the Al- Aqsa mosque. He is the leader of the northern branch of the Islamic Movement in Israel. In view of that, he was forced to serve a two-year sentence (2003 - 2005) as he was convicted by the Israel for funding Hamas and of having contact with an Iranian intelligence agent .
I still remember the last time when I saw his picture during my student days in UIA (few years back) on Palestine talks and video - young middle aged man with black hair. But now, he appeared much older than his present age. This shows how much troublesome and uneasiness he suffered as long as the Al-Aqsa is not freed from the Israel's occupation.
It was an honor for Malaysian to have him as our Palestinian guest though it was quite difficult for us to bring him inside our country as he held Israel passport. He was born in Umm al- Fahm (an Israeli-Arab city). Nevertheless, he is part of the remaining Palestinian who resist to fled away from their land even after being seized by the Israel.
The main purpose of Sheikh Raed Solah coming to Malaysia is to turn fuel the sense of the unity of Malaysia on the issue of Palestine and Al-Aqsa Mosque. Palestine issue is not an Arab issue but it is the obligation for the whole ummah to unite and strive together for the revival of a free Palestine country. By seeing and hear ourselves from this prominent figure of Palestine heroic, the spirit of Palestine will be enlightened and further elevate this issue until it is ingrained in our daily lives.
The current danger situation of al-Aqsa mosque may not be highlighted by the media, hence created unawareness among the Muslims on this issue. Looking back to his tireless effort in defending the Al-Aqsa Syarif, it was disheartening to notice some of the attitude of Muslims in our country who choose to be ignorant and not interested in meeting this inspiring and great person...
Though he speak in Arabic in all his talks during the roadshow, but his 'aura' and motivation showed from his words and kind-hearted look. I still remember his last few words in his speech during one of the talk given in Putrajaya, he advised the Muslims particularly the youngsters for never giving up or feel dismay in striving for Palestine. His words are full of wisdom and optimistic:
Surely we will win,
Never look back again...
Photo sources: google images and aman palestin website
