Yahya Ayyash - Early Life

Early Life

Ayyash was born in Rafat on 22 February 1966, the eldest of three brothers. Al Qassam website, on the other hand, states his birth date as 3 March 1966. As a child, he was very pious, receiving an award from the Islamic Trust for his talent in memorizing the Koran. While a boy, Ayyash showed a talent for electrical and mechanical work—repairing radios, television sets, and the like. After graduating from high school in 1985, he entered Bir Zeit University in 1987. He received a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering in 1991.

Described as "well educated, ambitious, and soft-spoken," Ayyash hailed from a relatively affluent family. Married, with one child, Ayyash had planned to study for a master's degree in Jordan, but was denied permission to do so by Israeli authorities. It was around this time he joined Hamas.

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