Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices

Yousef reveres his father as the best example of Islam, a pious and profoundly compassionate man who lives his faith in the service of others. Hassan condones violence but cannot engage in it himself. Meanwhile, the men around Yousef in prison, while outwardly religious, were “bigots and hypocrites” (105). Contrary to promises from Shin Bet that he would soon be released, Yousef was sentenced to 16 months (minus six already served). During a visit from his family, he learned that his father was arrested once more while preparing to undertake the hajj, or a pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. One day, the Israelis refused demands made by the prison’s Hamas leadership; Hamas called for a riot in response and caused a massive fire in the tents, though no one was killed.

In September 1997, Yousef was released at last, and his mother tearfully greeted him at home as a “true hero” (110). He delighted in his homecoming and began taking care of another baby brother. Having failed his high school exams in prison, Yousef was able to take classes at a local Catholic school and earned his diploma.