“The Islamic Resistance Movement-Hamas expresses its condolences to South Africa, government, family, and people on the death of the freedom fighter, Archbishop Desmond Tutu,” Hamas said in a statement. “Like South Africa, Palestine has lost a true patriot, a great human rights defender, an opponent of racism, and a staunch defender of the Palestinian cause in many international forums and arenas.”

“His career will remain a beacon for his supporters, his fans, and the friendly people of South Africa until his hopes for an end to the Israeli occupation are fulfilled and our Palestinian people live in freedom,” it emphasized.

Desmond Mpilo Tutu  was a South African Anglican bishop and theologian, known for his work as an anti-apartheid and human rights activist.

He emerged as one of the most prominent opponents of South Africa's apartheid system of racial segregation and white minority rule.

Although warning the National Party government that anger at apartheid would lead to racial violence, as an activist he stressed non-violent protest and foreign economic pressure to bring about universal suffrage.

He was widely popular among South Africa's black majority and was internationally praised for his anti-apartheid activism, receiving a range of awards, including the Nobel Peace Prize. He also compiled several books of his speeches and sermons. (ILKHA)