Wael Hamdan Ibrahim Al-Dahdouh, born on April 30, 1970, in Gaza City, is a distinguished Palestinian journalist and the bureau chief of Al Jazeera in Gaza. Raised in the al-Zaytoun neighborhood, he hails from a well-off Palestinian family of farmers. In 1988, during the First Intifada, Wael was imprisoned by Israeli authorities for seven years, during which he completed his high school diploma. He later pursued higher education at the Islamic University of Gaza and Al-Quds University, focusing on journalism.

Wael's passion for journalism led him to join Al Jazeera in 2004, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the network's presence in Palestine. Over the years, he has covered major Israeli attacks on Gaza, including the genocides of 2008, 2012, 2014, 2021, and 2023, providing in-depth reporting on the challenges faced by Palestinians.

Wael was personal struck by a tragedy of profound magnitude on October 25, 2023, when an Israeli air raid targeted the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, where his family had sought refuge. The devastating attack claimed the lives of his wife, his 15-year-old son, his 7-year-old daughter, and his 18-month-old grandson. Footage aired on Al Jazeera showed Wael entering the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital to bid a final farewell to his loved ones, a moment that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide

Despite the profound personal loss, Wael's dedication to journalism remained steadfast. He continued to report on the ongoing Israeli genocide of Gaza, embodying the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people. His courage and commitment have made him a symbol of resistance and hope, inspiring many within and beyond Gaza.

“Wael Al-Dahdouh's story is a poignant testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. His unwavering commitment to truth and justice continues to inspire and remind the world of the personal sacrifices made by those who strive to report it”

The peril faced by journalists in genocide zones like Gaza is immense. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, as of January 14, 2025, 160 journalists and media workers have been confirmed killed in the Israeli genocide of Gaza, with 152 being Palestinian. This alarming statistic underscores the risks that journalists like Wael confront daily to shed light on the realities of genocide.