In the shadowy world of Middle East social media analysis, one name stands out: Abu Ali Express.
For a decade, this anonymous figure has been Israel's window into the Arab world, decoding social media chatter and providing insights that even top military brass find invaluable.
Now, in an exclusive first interview with Israel Hayom, the man behind the mask offers a glimpse into his world – a world where the line between civilian analyst and quasi-intelligence operative blurs.
With 420,000 followers on Telegram, Abu Ali Express has become a phenomenon. His channel isn't just popular; it's influential. Sources claim that IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi himself has been known to quote Abu Ali in high-level briefings.
But who is the man behind the moniker? He remains in the shadows, citing very real security concerns. "Exposing my identity endangers me," he explains, revealing that he regularly interacts with Palestinians who have no idea of his alter ego.
The October 7 Hamas attack thrust Abu Ali into an unprecedented role. As Israel reeled from the surprise assault, he was among the first to see footage of hostages in Gaza. "I saw images I couldn't believe I was seeing," he recounts, the emotion still palpable in his voice.
His decision not to immediately share those videos haunts him. "Today I regret that there are things I saw that morning and didn't publish immediately," he admits, wondering if he could have prevented further abductions.
Abu Ali's insights into Gaza's current state are equally compelling. He describes a population "shattered" by the war, regretting the initial euphoria of October 7. His words paint a vivid picture of a society under immense strain, where even basic hygiene has become a luxury.
As the conflict grinds on, Abu Ali Express continues his work, bridging worlds and providing crucial context.
His story is a testament to the power of open-source intelligence in the digital age – and the heavy responsibility that comes with it.
The full interview, promising even more revelations, will be published in Israel Hayom's "Shishbat" supplement, offering readers a rare peek behind the curtain of one of Israel's most intriguing media phenomena.