By Rami Tahboub, Palestinian Ambassador

The news of the death of Khaled Sulaiman Al-Jarallah came as a profound shock. Just last week, I had the privilege of visiting him at his Diwan to extend my congratulations on the occasion of the blessed month of Ramadan. As always, he greeted me with his signature warm smile, welcoming me graciously and inviting me to sit beside him. True to his nature, he began our conversation by inquiring about my family, a testament to his kindness and genuine concern for others.

I was fortunate to share a close relationship with him, particularly after his retirement. I frequently visited him in his private office or diwan and at times, sought his counsel over the phone regarding matters related to Palestine and its cause. His political wisdom was invaluable, offering insights that I considered not only personal lessons but also guidance beneficial to the Palestinian leadership in critical moments.

Abu Hazem embodied the highest standards of ethics, sophistication and humility. His calm and composed demeanor earned him the love, respect and trust of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His profound diplomatic acumen was shaped under the mentorship of the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, a towering figure in Arab and international diplomacy.

It brings me great pride that in 2018, during his official visit to Kuwait, Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine, honored the late Khaled Al-Jarallah with the Jerusalem Star from the Order of Jerusalem. This recognition was a tribute to his unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, which he defended with wisdom and steadfastness on international platforms, resisting all pressures with remarkable competence.

While Abu Hazem has departed this world, his legacy, values, and contributions will remain etched in our hearts and minds. On behalf of the Palestinian community in Kuwait and myself, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May Allah Almighty grant him eternal mercy and bestow patience and solace upon his bereaved family. “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return.” (Quran 2:156)