Queen Rania Honors Gaza Journalist Wael Al-Dahdouh in Doha

February 11, 2024 – Jordan/Palestine –

In a poignant meeting in Doha, Queen Rania of Jordan sat down with renowned Al Jazeera journalist Wael Al-Dahdouh, a man who has become a symbol of truth and perseverance in Gaza. The encounter took place during Queen Rania’s visit to Qatar for the AFC 2023 Asian Cup final, but it was her private moment with Al-Dahdouh and his family that resonated far beyond the stadium. In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, she honored his sacrifice, writing, “Few people sacrifice so much for the truth… May God grant you patience and protect Gaza and its people.”

Al-Dahdouh’s story has become emblematic of the unbearable toll faced by Palestinian journalists. After spending over two decades reporting from Gaza, his life was shattered in October 2023 when an Israeli airstrike killed his wife, son, daughter, and grandson while he was reporting live. Just weeks later, in January 2024, his eldest son Hamza—a fellow journalist—was also killed in an Israeli strike. By then, Al-Dahdouh had been seriously wounded himself and was evacuated to Qatar for treatment.

Despite his injuries and immense personal loss, Al-Dahdouh has remained resolute in his mission to document the war and tell Gaza’s story to the world. His work and resilience have drawn international recognition and deep admiration. Queen Rania’s visit served not only as a gesture of solidarity but also as a public acknowledgment of the indispensable role journalists play during war, often at the cost of their own lives and families.

Photos from their meeting show Queen Rania embracing Al-Dahdouh and offering quiet support to his family. The image, widely circulated, has become a symbol of shared grief and resistance. It is a reminder that behind every war report is a human being—wounded, grieving, but still standing.

In a time when the voices of Gaza are being silenced, Al-Dahdouh remains unwavering. Queen Rania’s tribute affirms that his voice—and the truth he carries—must not be forgotten.

Reference – 

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2458106/middle-east

Jordan’s Queen Rania meets Gaza journalist Wael Al-Dahdouh in Doha