Ramiz Al-`Ayidi
Dr. Rāmiz al-‘Āyidī (رامز العايدى) was a Palestinian lawyer, academic, and author whose life was defined by a deep commitment to justice, education, and the advancement of his community. Born in Palestine in 1972, he grew up witnessing the struggles of his people and dedicated his career to studying the law not only as a profession but as a tool for social change and human dignity.
A highly respected legal scholar, Dr. al-‘Āyidī was a professor of law at al-Umma Open University, where he mentored students and emphasized the importance of ethical responsibility in the practice of law. His intellectual contributions extended far beyond the classroom. He was the author of The General Theory of Crime, and Characteristics of the Arab Political System and the Causes of Change (2012), published by the Ramallah Center for Human Rights Studies. Through his writings, he explored the structures of law, governance, and society, providing critical insights into the dynamics of crime, justice, and political transformation in the Arab world.
Dr. al-‘Āyidī was not only an academic but also an active voice in public education. He delivered lectures and workshops on pressing social issues, including the dangers of drugs and their impact on Palestinian society, often working in cooperation with local institutions and the Palestinian police to raise awareness among young people. His ability to bridge scholarship with community engagement made him a trusted figure in both intellectual and civic circles.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. al-‘Āyidī was a devoted family man. He lived with his wife, Shaima Khaled al-‘Āyidī, an UNRWA school principal, in the al-Qarara area of Khan Yunis. Together they raised three children—Sama, Salah, and Ahmed—instilling in them the values of education, resilience, and love for their homeland.
On 17 March, 2024, after weeks of siege and destruction in their neighborhood, Dr. al-‘Āyidī was killed when Israeli forces bombarded the area. While his wife, children, and relatives fled to safety, he chose to remain behind, refusing to abandon his home and determined to safeguard what little remained of his family’s life in Khan Yunis. His death was a devastating loss, not only for his wife and children but also for his students, colleagues, and the wider Palestinian intellectual and legal community.