Video of man breaking down after news of his brother’s death claimed as staged

Accounts on “X” shared a video showing a corpse besides a man breaking down while holding a cellphone, accompanied by the following caption: “Director: ‘Okay, for this scene, try to act naturally. You’re seeing this for the first time. When making a phone call, you need to dial a number first – it won’t be believable if you just pick up and start yelling. Alright, action.’” The post implied that the video was staged.

Kashif verified the claim and found it to be misleading. The video actually depicts Amir Al-Shawa upon learning about the death of his brother, Wasim Al-Shawa, at Al-Ma’madani Hospital.

Journalist Mahmoud Abu Salama shared the video on his Instagram account on 13/12/2025, with the following caption: “For over a year, this has been the daily scene in Gaza.”

Kashif reached out to journalist Mahmoud Abu Salama, who confirmed that the video shows the moment Amir Al-Shawa received news of his brother Wasim’s killing. He clarified that 22 year-old Wasim Al-Shawa, was targeted near the Al-Sinaa Intersection in southern Gaza City. Abu Salama added that the video captures Amir calling his uncle, Mahmoud Skik, to inform him of the news.

In the same context, Kashif also contacted Amir Al-Shawa, who confirmed his appearance in the video, stating it was filmed when he received the news of his brother’s martyrdom. He added that he was speaking to his uncle, Mahmoud Skik, who appears later in the video.

Abu Salama, confirmed during a live report for Al-Ghad TV on 13/12/2024 that an Israeli drone strike targeted a group of civilians near the Al-Sinaa Intersection in southern Gaza City, resulting in killing two and other several injuries.

According to the latest update from the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, the death toll from the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,936, with 109,274 injuries since 7/10/2023.