The Palestinian Legislative Council has expressed profound sorrow following the death of Salah Al-Bardawil, a prominent member of the council and a leader of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), who was killed during an Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis on March 23, 2025. The council issued a public statement of condolences, mourning Al-Bardawil's tragic death alongside his wife and several relatives who perished in the same attack.
Al-Bardawil’s assassination marks another violent incident in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian factions, which has escalated dramatically in recent months. The Palestinian Legislative Council described the attack as a heinous crime against peaceful individuals and leaders committed while Al-Bardawil was attending to humanitarian needs in the region. The council declared, “We mourn our martyr with a sense of pride in his dedication and sacrifice in service to his cause and people.”
As noted in the council's statement, Al-Bardawil was a respected figure with a longstanding history of political engagement and community service. Not only did he hold a significant role in the Hamas leadership, but he was also recognized for his contributions to academia and education. The council pledged to continue down the path set by the martyrs, vowing that the Palestinian people's struggle for freedom will not be hindered by such brutal acts of suppression.
This sentiment was echoed by Hamas, which mourned Al-Bardawil as a vital leader who stood firm in the struggle for Palestinian rights. The statement from Hamas began with a poignant verse, emphasizing the belief that “do not think of those who are killed in the cause of God as dead, but alive with their Lord, being provided for.”
According to the Hamas statement, Al-Bardawil was performing evening prayers in his tent at the time of the attack, reflecting on the significance of community and faith amid adversity. The movement conveyed that his legacy would continue to inspire resistance against the justifications for the ongoing violence by Israeli forces. “The blood of this great leader will remain a beacon for the march of liberation and return,” the statement affirmed.
Born on August 24, 1959, in Khan Yunis refugee camp, Al-Bardawil was a fixture in Palestinian leadership, actively participating in various political and humanitarian efforts throughout his life. He co-founded the Islamic National Salvation Party in 1996 and later played integral roles within Hamas and the Palestinian Legislative Council, where he served as a representative and advocate for Arab unity and resistance against occupation.
The council highlighted his noteworthy achievements, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to political reform and reconciliation within the Palestinian National Liberation Organization (PLO). Al-Bardawil consistently called for a unified national program that allows for the representation of all Palestinians. His contributions also significantly impacted the foreign relations of his political bloc in the Legislative Council.
Al-Bardawil’s untimely death is emblematic of the risks faced by Palestinian leaders amid the complex dynamics of Israeli occupation. Reports indicate that around the time of his assassination, the atmosphere in Khan Yunis had become increasingly volatile, with numerous airstrikes targeting civilian structures in recent weeks. Local sources noted that these strikes raised fears among residents, particularly those who had sought refuge in makeshift tents.
As tributes continue to pour in for Al-Bardawil from various political factions and organizations, the call for unity among Palestinians has grown louder. His death serves both as a rallying point for Hamas and a reminder of the struggles faced by Palestinian communities living under threat of violence. The Legislative Council confirmed its resolve to forge ahead in memory of those lost, stating, “Every martyr increases the strength of the resistance to defeat the occupation.”
Al-Bardawil leaves behind his wife and eight children, a testament to his dual commitments to family and nation. The broader international community will undoubtedly follow the unfolding ramifications of this tragic event, as leaders from around the world are urging for de-escalation and a renewed commitment to peace in the region.
The Palestinian Legislative Council has reiterated its commitment to the path of Al-Bardawil and others slain, asserting that their sacrifices will not be forgotten. In a reflective closing statement, they noted that “this criminal enemy will not be able to diminish our resolve,” a sentiment that resonates deeply within Palestinian society as they continue their fight for rights and autonomy.
