With deep sadness and pain, the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine said farewell to the poet of Palestine and of the resistance, the great battle-hardened Mahmoud Darwish, who left us at the age of 67 after undergoing an open-heart surgery.

Our dear Darwish was an innovative voice. His poetry, his literature and his fighting spirit will be a school that will inspire millions of our people.

The most radiant star faded and death took our great poet. We will feel his absence deeply.

Nonetheless, his work and noblemen ideas for which he fought will forever be present.

The Declaration of the Independence, written by Darwish with political talent, will last as inspiration in our struggle toward freedom, democracy, self-determination, return to the homeland, and social justice.

To the Palestinian people, to the great poet's family and his admirers, we offer our most sincere condolences.

Despite of the long road and suffering, dawn always arrives after the long night.

Together toward assured victory!

Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine
August 9, 2008