wife of Hamas leader Ihyeh Sinwar.Photo: newsx.
Against the backdrop of constant accusations against Israel regarding the dire economic situation in the Gaza Strip, Hamas leaders demonstrate shameless luxury. One such illustrative situation is the appearance of Ihyeh Sinwar’s wife, Samar Abu Zamar, with an expensive bag while travelling through the tunnels. According to the IDF press service, on 19 October 2023, a video was posted on their social media showing Samar walking through an underground tunnel with a Birkin bag from Hermes worth $32,000.This is reported by vesty.
This detail has caused outrage, especially in the context of statements by the UN and international organisations accusing Israel of creating “inhumane living conditions” for Gazans. The IDF emphasises that such luxury among Hamas leaders contrasts with the lives of the majority of Palestinians, who live in poverty.
A terrorist’s wife and a symbol of luxury
Samar Abu-Zamar, the wife of Hamas leader Ihyeh Sinwar, was not previously known to the general public. She grew up in one of the richest neighbourhoods in Gaza and comes from a family with deep support for Hamas ideology. She studied at the Islamic University of Gaza, where she earned a master’s degree in religious studies, and then stayed on as a teacher there until her marriage.
Their marriage took place on 21 November 2011, shortly after Sinwar’s release from an Israeli prison as part of the Gilad Shalit for over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners deal. Despite the large age difference, the marriage has become a symbol of Sinwar’s power and influence.
A luxury bag against the backdrop of war and poverty
In rare footage dated 6 October 2023, Samar Abu-Zamar is seen walking for cover through a tunnel, accompanied by Sinwar’s family. The value of the Birkin bag, which is a symbol of style and luxury, was quickly identified by experts. Manufactured by the Parisian fashion house Hermes, this bag is one of the most prestigious in the world and its price can reach several hundred thousand dollars.
“Gazans, here is some food for thought,” the IDF spokesperson said in an Arabic message, adding that such displays of luxury are a clear example of Hamas’ double standards.
Samar Abu-Zamar.Photo: Tsahal press service
The secret life of the first lady of Hamas
Samar Abu-Zamar, who had previously carefully concealed her face and life from the public eye, has always followed tradition. Despite her husband’s brutality, including the personal assassination of people suspected of collaborating with Israel, she has always remained devoted to him. Their marriage was reportedly partly arranged by Sinwar’s relatives, and was a testament to his influence in Gaza society.
The Samar Abu-Zamar bag scandal is a symbol of Hamas’ hypocrisy, which publicly claims poverty and suffering while continuing to bathe in luxury. This raises the question of whether the leaders of this organisation really care about their people or use them for their own enrichment.
