Son of Hamas

Synopsis

An eye-opening insight into the mind and motives of Islamic terrorists with the true story of Mosab Hassan Yousef, the son of a founder leader of Hamas.

Summary

Son of Mosab Hassan Yousef, also known as the Son of Hamas, is an autobiography that chronicles his life of living in Gaza and how he ultimately escaped to America. Yousef grew up in a traditional Palestinian family, believing in the politics of Hamas, that saw Israel as an oppressor. Yet Yousef never fully believed in the terrorism and war that were being practiced by Hamas. He was eventually recruited into the Security services for Hamas and worked as a spy for Israeli intelligence to help stop further suicide bombings.

In chapter one, the reader is introduced to the state of Gaza during Yousef's youth. He describes the oppressive atmosphere that came with living in a politically tense region and how most Palestinians were willing to conform to their society's expectations in order to survive. He recalls being led astray by his reckless friends and the pressure he endured from his family to be a good Muslim boy. Despite this, Yousef held onto his own beliefs and values.

In chapter two, Yousef's travels begin as he is recruited by Hamas. He is taken to a training camp where he is forced to learn terrorist skills. He is quickly arrested by Israeli intelligence and subjected to intense interrogations. Yousef decides to cooperate but only to a point, knowing that going all the way would put himself and his family in danger.

In chapter three, Yousef has to find a way to escape Gaza with his family in order to receive the medical treatment his dad desperately needs. He takes a risk and takes on a new mission for the Israeli intelligence services. He is sent to Jordan and ultimately ends up in California.

In chapter four, Yousef must come to grips with the life he is living away from home and his family. He feels isolated and is constantly tempted to go back to his roots in the Middle East. He is eventually visited by his imploring brother but feels guilty that he is unable to return to help his family in the struggle against Hamas.

In chapter five, Yousef discusses his decision to become a Christian and the internal conflicts he faces as he tries to reconcile his new beliefs with his old values. He struggles with the thought that if he renounces his religion that he will be under persecution from his own people.

In chapter six, Yousef is arrested by Homeland Security in California and is thrown into deportation proceedings. He must face the fact that he is not an American citizen and that his punishment could be exile or even death. Heartsick over the fate of his family back in Gaza, he prepares to face the consequences of his actions.

In chapter seven, Yousef reflects upon his story and his life, both in the Middle East and as a clandestined immigrant in California. He wonders if it is possible to stay true to his faith and beliefs despite the costs. He evokes the spirit of the Palestinian people struggling through the difficult times while knowing that they must accept that they can never return home.

In the conclusion, Yousef wraps up his story in a powerful way, speaking to the heart of the reader. He offers up a sort of hope to those who might not think it’s possible to find one’s own path in a politicized, divided world. Yousef’s story ultimately proves that no matter the circumstance, everyone deserves a chance to find peace.