Mahmoud Al-Aridah—icon of resistance:
Known for his wisdom, knowledge, and determination, Mahmoud is a leader with extraordinary willpower. A Saraya Al-Quds commander in Jenin, he possesses unmatched determination despite his life sentence and nearly 30 years in prison, continuing his march of resistance from his cell.
In his 2017 book, "Reality and Aspirations," Mahmoud wrote, "God will not ask you why you did not win, or why you did not succeed, but why you did not try."
Mahmoud instilled this characteristic determination into all prisoners he interacted with. You can be free. You will be free. Mahmoud insisted—insists—on liberation.
Mahmoud led the resistance in secret in his hometown of Arraba, home of heroes like martyrs Sheikh Khader Adnan, Tariq Izz El-Din, and Abu Ali Mustafa. Even after his imprisonment, he continued to lead resistance.
He studied Gilboa prison while he was in Shata prison, where he previously attempted an escape tunnel in 2014. When he got to Gilboa, Mahmoud and others decided to liberate themselves.
One of the heroes of the operation dreamt months before their liberation: the Prophet Muhammed was standing in the plains of Arraba, where okra fields stretched far and wide. Many of the plants were dying. The Prophet said to harvest it, even if old. Some refused, but the hero harvested without hesitation, questioning why the others hesitated. The hero advanced forth with faith and trust in his victory, anticipating the one to come.
"We will never regret the sacrifices we made for our people and rights. We chose the path of jihad and Palestine with love, belonging, loyalty, and faith because we are the rightful owners of the cause, and defending our land is a legitimate right and duty. Every day that passes in prisons strengthens us with power, faith, steadfastness, and determination to continue the path of the martyrs with our people until we are liberated from the occupation."
The enemy's prestige had been broken once again, by a tunnel whose strength rivals a military arsenal.
