The Thorn and the Carnation By: Yahya Al-Sinwar

The Thorn and the Carnation is a compelling novel by Yahya Al-Sinwar, written during his long imprisonment in Israeli jails. This work provides a unique insight into the resilience and mindset of a man central to Palestinian resistance. The story spans the years of Al-Sinwar’s incarceration, exploring a spirit unbroken by confinement. It details a journey of endurance and traces the thinking that would later define his leadership. Readers are invited into his inner world, where ideas such as the “Flood of Al-Aqsa” operation, launched on 7 October 2023, may have first taken shape.

More than a story of survival, the novel testifies to the spirit of a people in perpetual struggle. It offers a glimpse into the sacrifices and conflicts that drive Al-Sinwar and his comrades in their quest for liberation. The English translation preserves the intensity of Al-Sinwar’s voice, allowing global readers to connect with the story’s emotional depth and political perspective.

As Al-Sinwar’s influence continues to shape events in the Middle East, the book emerges as an essential read for those seeking to understand this complex landscape. It is a powerful blend of history and insight—an account alive with the passion and resolve of a leader, reflecting on the past and projecting a view into the region’s future.

Includes part 1 and part 2