Khaled Nabhan, a Palestinian grandfather who became an emblem of grief, charity, and defiance, was killed in Israeli shelling early on Monday in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. Nabhan, affectionately known as “Abu Diaa,” had gained widespread attention in 2023 after a heartbreaking video showed him kissing the eyes of his slain granddaughter, Reem, and calling her “soul of my soul.”
Nabhan’s granddaughter, Reem, and grandson, Tarek, were killed in November 2023 during Israeli airstrikes. The video of Nabhan cradling Reem’s lifeless body went viral, capturing the unimaginable pain of a grandfather mourning the loss of his young grandchildren. His grief resonated globally, symbolizing the devastating toll of the ongoing Israeli bombardments on Gaza.
Nabhan’s own death highlights the relentless nature of the conflict, with no safe haven in Gaza. He was killed in an Israeli attack on the Abu Hajar family’s home, part of a larger bombing that claimed at least five lives, including a child. In the aftermath of Reem’s death, Nabhan had dedicated himself to helping rescue and aid injured Palestinians, especially children, while grappling with his own sorrow.
The loss of Reem, just three years old, and Tarek, aged five, left a profound impact on the community. In the wake of these tragedies, Nabhan was celebrated for his charitable actions and for spreading hope to those affected by the conflict.
Palestinian rights advocates paid tribute to Nabhan, recalling his resilience and kindness. Muhammad Shehada, a Gaza-based writer and analyst, condemned Israel for “murdering” Nabhan after already taking his granddaughter. He shared how Nabhan spent months helping those in need, providing food to starving children and animals despite his personal grief.
Palestinian-American activist Omar Suleiman described Nabhan’s spirit, saying he had a “smiling presence in the face of genocide,” offering comfort to others in hospitals and camps despite enduring profound pain.
In February, Dearborn, Michigan’s mayor, Abdullah Hammoud, referenced Nabhan in his endorsement of the Uncommitted National Movement campaign, urging President Joe Biden to end his unconditional support for Israel.
As of Monday, Israel’s war on Gaza has claimed the lives of over 45,000 people, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, marking yet another tragic milestone in the 14-month conflict. The United Nations and human rights organizations have labeled the Israeli offensive as genocidal, with the aim of destroying, in part or in full, the Palestinian people.
