An 8-year-old boy widely reported to have been killed by Israel Defense Forces in Gaza has been found alive, according to new reports.
The child, Abdul Rahim Muhammad Hamden — known as “Abboud” — appeared in an interview alongside his mother after being relocated from Gaza. He confirmed he was never injured.
False Viral Claim
Former Gaza Humanitarian Foundation contractor Tony Aguilar had claimed in July that he saw a young boy named “Amir” run into “a wall of bullets” and die after being shot by Israeli troops. His story spread across media outlets in July and August.
The Daily Wire reported that Abboud’s identity was confirmed through biometrics and that he still had the shirt he wore in Aguilar’s viral video.
Remember ex-GHF contractor Tony Aguilar’s claim that he saw a little Gazan boy named “Amir” run into “a wall of bullets” and suffer “a shot to the torso, a shot to the leg, dead?”
Well it’s not true. “Amir” is alive and well.
My latest for @realdailywire: pic.twitter.com/OMxdNvHIOk
— Kassy Akiva (@KassyAkiva) September 4, 2025
GHF Response
Chapin Fay of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation condemned Aguilar’s claims, saying they endangered the boy. “That publicity placed the child squarely in the crosshairs of Hamas, who have benefited greatly from Mr. Aguilar’s lies and the media amplifying them,” Fay said.
He added that news outlets which spread the story “owe [Abboud] — and the public — an apology and a retraction.”
Happy Outcome
GHF officials credited their team of American veterans, local Gazans, and humanitarians for quietly working to locate Abboud and secure his safety. “Their courage and determination saved this boy’s life,” Fay said.
Abboud told Fox News, “Outside the Gaza Strip is nice.” His mother, Najlaa, added: “My son and I suffered a lot. But we thank God. I thank everyone who helped me and stood by me.”
