Abdelfatah Mustafa Al Atrash, affectionately known as Abdo, was born on May 20, 1980, in Egypt. After completing his high school education in 1997, Abdo pursued higher studies at the Faculty of Science at Al Azhar University in Gaza, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology in 2002. This strong scientific foundation underscored his methodical and analytical approach, qualities that would soon define his impactful career. Following graduation, Abdo briefly worked as a laboratory technician for an UNRWA clinic and worked at Shifa Hospital as a volunteer.
Abdo dedicated his professional life to the International Committee of the Red Cross. He began his journey in 2004 at the ICRC premises as a guard then at reception desk, quickly progressing. By 2006, he became a radio operator, then radio operator and security guard supervisor, eventually becoming a cornerstone of the Gaza Sub-delegation's Operations Room. His role encompassed comprehensive security oversight and management, where he consistently provided outstanding operational support while navigating the complex security situation in the region. Colleagues consistently described him as being "always on top of things, constantly monitoring the situation," ensuring vital security information reached ICRC staff and that missions could be conducted safely and efficiently.
His expertise extended well beyond basic security protocols. Abdo was instrumental in implementing new security frameworks, including the successful rollout of GAZ Security Rules for Mobile Staff. He demonstrated exceptional organizational acumen in managing radio room operations and coordinating security personnel, effectively overseeing a team of more than 30 ICRC guards. His meticulous preparation of rotation plans and guard schedules ensured seamless operational continuity.
What truly distinguished Abdo was his ability to foster collaboration across departments. He consistently facilitated effective cooperation between the radio room, IT, and logistics, regularly liaising with the Fleet Department and implementing crucial improvements in VHF network quality. His efforts to build team cohesion were particularly noteworthy; he organized regular meetings with security guards and took the initiative to translate important information into Arabic to ensure clear understanding and effective communication among all team members.
Abdo was motivated by what colleagues described as a "noble" purpose, viewing his work with the ICRC as direct service to his community. This profound sense of service was the driving force throughout his career, manifesting in his unwavering professionalism and accountability. He was consistently recognized as a "very professional man" who showed "real commitment to good quality of service and delivery." His proactive approach to problem-solving and his adaptability in challenging circumstances made him an invaluable team member.
As a leader, Abdo led by example, cultivating what colleagues described as a "respectful and inclusive work environment." His exceptional communication skills enabled him to engage in open dialogue with team members at all levels, maintaining a calm demeanour even in high-pressure situations. He was known for his generosity in sharing knowledge and experience, always taking time to develop his team members and ensure their professional growth.
Abdo was married to Elham, a colleague he met at the Gaza sub-delegation. He cherished his role as a father to three children, who were central to his life and provided him with strength and purpose. His colleagues consistently regarded him as a "generous team member" and a "pleasure to work with," noting his significant contribution to the positive atmosphere of the Operations Room and the broader sub-delegation.
To those who knew him, Abdo was more than a colleague—he was family. His ever-present smile, sense of humour, and commitment to the ICRC mission made him a beloved figure across the delegation. Even after sustaining injuries in a car accident in 2019, Abdo remained steadfast in his work, arriving on time every day with crutches in hand, demonstrating the enduring dedication that characterized his entire career.
After the devastating violence on October 7, 2023, military operations resumed in the region. Amidst these harrowing circumstances, Abdo continued his crucial work, coordinating staff movements and ensuring the safety of his colleagues. On October 9, Abdo was killed along with his two daughters and his mother when their building was hit by an airstrike. His son and his wife, Elham, were wounded in the attack.
Throughout his career with the ICRC, Abdo was a vital contributor to the security and operational success of the organization in one of the world's most challenging regions, ensuring that humanitarian work could continue even in the most difficult circumstances. His legacy lies not only in the security protocols he established and the operational improvements he implemented, but in the countless lives he helped protect through his diligent work. As one colleague reflected, his contributions were fundamental to enabling the ICRC to deliver humanitarian assistance to those who needed it most. His dedication to service, his professional excellence, and his commitment to his community embodied the very best of humanitarian principles.
His reassuring voice on the radio and his welcoming smile when entering the Gaza sub-delegation will always remain with those who knew him. As will the laugh of his daughter Salma, who used to spend time with the team in the family visit program space, bringing joy and light to the workplace that her father had made his second home.
