On the night of 26 October, while covering the attacks on civilians in the residential neighborhoods of Idlib City, Muhammad Othman was injured by shrapnel from Russian and Assad bombardment, a few days later he succumbed to his injuries. L24 reached out to Muhannad, media activist, colleague, and close friend of Muhammad Othman, to speak about the life, work, and passing of his beloved friend, and these are his words of remembrance.
It is with heavy hearts that the people of the liberated territories and free media mourn the loss of Muhammad Othman, a courageous Syrian journalist and media activist who dedicated his life to shedding light on the plight of the Syrian people. Muhammad’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice made him a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
Born in the town of Kansafra, Idlib, Abu Bakr Muhammad Ali Haj Ibrahim, known to the world as Muhammad Othman, was a young man of remarkable character and unwavering faith. From a religious family, he grew up with a deep sense of compassion and a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
At the tender age of 18, motivated by a burning passion to expose the atrocities committed against his people, Muhammad ventured into the perilous field of journalism as a war correspondent which placed him often at the frontlines.
His work gave a platform for the Syrian people letting their voices be heard and showing their resilience to the world. At the young age of 23, he left this world, yet reached countless people around the globe through his dedicated devotion to providing coverage of the Syrian revolution.
Muhammad’s media work was driven by a profound love for his country and a desire to amplify the voices of the oppressed. He sought to convey the sacrifices of the mujahideen, to deliver news about the revolution, and to expose the crimes of the Assad regime against the Syrian people. His voice was like that of a roaring lion, resonating with strength and resilience against oppression and the regime and its allies.
Throughout his career, Muhammad fearlessly put his life on the line to bring the truth to light. He exposed himself to danger, covering the Russian occupier’s shelling of Idlib City, and it was during one of these assignments that he sustained the injuries that ultimately led to his martyrdom.
Muhammad’s impactful experiences were numerous, but one that stands out was his deep concern for the people of Gaza during the recent invasion. He tirelessly sought ways to support them and bring attention to their plight. His dedication and selflessness were evident in every aspect of his work.
Through his coverage and unwavering commitment, Muhammad played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the dire situation in Idlib, from the crimes of Assad and the occupiers, and the resilience of the revolutionaries and the people of Syria. With all the suffering they have endured. He shattered the misconception that the jihad had ceased, reminding the world that the mujahideen would never surrender their land to their enemies. His work inspired the people to rally around their sons and daughters, reigniting the flame of resistance, and a conduit for the sacrifices of the free.
As an activist, Muhammad possessed qualities that set him apart. His humility, infectious smile, and genuine love for all those he encountered left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He faced challenges and risks with unwavering courage, dedicating his energy and passion to defending the sanctities and honor of Muslims.
Muhammad Othman’s passing leaves no void in the local media activism community. His martyrdom will awaken the determination of the activists, illuminate their path, and they will not forget to revenge him or our people’s martyrs. A renewed commitment to continue his legacy and strengthens our firm determination to convey the voice of truth.
Muhammad Othman’s life was tragically cut short, but his impact will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and those who were touched by his work. May he be accepted into the highest paradise, and may his legacy inspire generations to come.
