Social media users coin “Sinwar’s stick” as new Arabic proverb for resistance

Former Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar's final act of throwing a stick at an Israeli drone has led to the coinage of a new Arabic proverb, "Asa Al-Sinwar" (Sinwar’s stick), as social media users widely pay tribute to him through various forms of art and share moments from his life.

Sinwar's last moments, filmed by the Israeli army, transformed him into a hero for many.

Despite being severely injured, with one hand blown off during the fighting, Sinwar's attempt to fight the enemy with a stick while seated on a sofa has been hailed as a symbol of defiance.

The origin of the term "Asa Al-Sinwar" is unclear, but it quickly became a buzzword online, with the video of his final moments sparking a flood of praise and homage for the Hamas leader.

Many admirers shared artwork in honour of his struggle to liberate Palestine from Israeli occupation, while others also posted old interviews and photos of the 62-year-old fighter.

Sinwar’s Stick: pic.twitter.com/hl5ZkWb5bF

— PalMedia (@PalBint) October 21, 2024

His last moments catapulted him to greater popularity, portraying him as a hero for those unfamiliar with his long history of resistance and intellectual abilities, including mastering Hebrew during his imprisonment in Israeli jails.

Several political analysts argued that the Israeli army made a mistake by releasing the video, as it showed Sinwar as a stalwart figure rather than the "terrorist" they intended the world to see.

Israeli media confirmed his death on October 17, with the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) later verifying his identity through DNA testing.

Sinwar, born in the Khan Younis refugee camp, joined Hamas in 1987 and became one of Israel's most wanted figures.

He advocated for a unified Palestinian state encompassing Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.