Ismail Haniyeh is a prominent Palestinian political figure who has played a pivotal role in the complex and tumultuous landscape of Palestinian politics. With a career marked by highs and lows, Haniyeh's journey reflects the enduring struggle for Palestinian self-determination and statehood. He is a millionaire, stemming from the 20% tax charged on all items entering through tunnels from Egypt to the Gaza Strip. He ordered the recent attack on Israel over the weekend, which resulted in over 1,500 deaths on both sides. Haniyeh is currently leading a lavish lifestyle in Qatar and reportedly watched the aggressions from the comfort of his office.
Ismail Haniyeh was born on January 29, 1962, in Shati refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. The Gaza Strip, a densely populated coastal enclave, has been a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades. Growing up in a refugee camp, Haniyeh experienced firsthand the hardships and challenges faced by Palestinians in their quest for statehood. He is married with 13 children.
He received his primary education in institutions managed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). He studied Arabic literature at the Islamic University of Gaza and became involved with Hamas while at university. He has also been involved with the Muslim Brotherhood and was head of the students' council representing the Muslim Brotherhood while at university