GAZA (The COW News Digital) It has been 21 years since the passing of former Palestinian President Yasser Arafat, a towering figure in the struggle for Palestinian self-determination. Across Palestine and the world, commemorative events are being held today to honor his life and enduring legacy.
Arafat, who served as the first President of the Palestinian Authority, remains a symbol of resilience and hope for Palestinians. His decades-long struggle for the recognition of Palestinian rights left an indelible mark on the region’s history.
Yasser Arafat passed away on November 11, 2004, at the age of 75, while receiving treatment in a Paris hospital for an undisclosed illness. The circumstances of his death have long been shrouded in controversy. A Swiss laboratory investigation suggested that Arafat may have been poisoned, raising questions and fueling decades of speculation.
In recent years, discussions around the cause of his death have resurfaced. Some media outlets reported claims from Arafat’s widow, Suha Arafat, suggesting that a Palestinian, rather than Israeli forces, may have been responsible for poisoning him. Suha Arafat strongly denied these interpretations, clarifying that her statements were taken out of context. She emphasized on her social media that she has never accused anyone of Arafat’s death and has no evidence to suggest foul play by any individual.
“The case is still under investigation, and I cannot hold anyone responsible,” Suha stated. “My position regarding Yasser Arafat’s death has not changed since the day he passed away.”
Despite the unresolved questions surrounding his death, Arafat’s legacy continues to inspire. Palestinians remember him not only as a political leader but as a figure who symbolized their aspirations for independence and self-governance. Annual memorials and public tributes reflect the enduring respect he commands among his people.
As investigations into his death continue, the world honors a leader whose life was devoted to the cause of Palestinian freedom. His passing remains a significant chapter in the history of the Middle East, and his memory continues to influence the ongoing discourse on peace and justice in the region.
