RAMALLAH, December 20, 2024 (WAFA) – Today, the Palestinian leadership and the public bade farewell to veteran national fighter, Major General Fuad Shobaki, who passed away yesterday at the age of 84. His funeral procession began from the Presidential Headquarters in Ramallah.

The official funeral was attended by Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, senior Palestinian leadership members, including the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Central Committee of Fatah, as well as members of the Revolutionary Council, governors, ministers, and leaders of security forces. Family members and close relatives of the deceased also joined the ceremony.

As the late leader's body arrived at the Presidential Headquarters, a guard of honor stood at attention. The coffin, draped in Palestinian flags, was carried by his comrades and passed before the honor guard. The Palestinian national anthem and funeral music resonated throughout the gathering as mourners paid their respects.

At the headquarters, the mourners gathered in the Ahmad Shukeiri Hall for a final viewing of the body, where prayers were offered. Prime Minister Mustafa laid a wreath on Shobaki's coffin as a tribute to the fallen hero.

Following the ceremony at the Presidential Headquarters, the funeral procession moved to the Al-Ain Mosque in the city of Al-Bireh for a funeral prayer after Friday prayers. From there, the procession continued to the Old Bireh Cemetery, where Shobaki was laid to rest.

Shobaki's death marks the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to the Palestinian cause. Having been a key figure in the Fatah movement and a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights, Shobaki spent decades in service of his people’s struggle for freedom and independence. 

His contributions were recognized by President Mahmoud Abbas, who expressed deep condolences, praising Shobaki’s leadership and tireless efforts in defending the Palestinian cause.

M.N