A new Al Jazeera documentary, "Walid Daqqa: A Parallel Life," sheds light on the extraordinary existence of Walid Daqqa, a Palestinian prisoner who spent decades in Israeli jails, transforming his confinement into a space for intellectual and personal growth.

The film, released on May 21, 2026, draws on voice recordings made by Daqqa and intimate testimonies from his family, former fellow prisoners, and his lawyer to chronicle his journey from a young activist to one of the longest-serving Palestinian detainees.

Daqqa, who was a member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), was sentenced to life imprisonment. Despite the harsh conditions, he cultivated what the film describes as a "parallel time," a rich inner life that transcended the physical walls of his cell. This parallel existence included deep intellectual engagement, creative pursuits, and even a marriage and the birth of his daughter, Milad, through smuggled sperm.

The documentary explores the profound implications of Daqqa's "parallel time" on his family and the broader Palestinian struggle for prisoner rights. His message to his daughter, Milad, urging her to "hate oppression, not people," encapsulates a philosophy of resilience and humanity in the face of injustice.

"Walid Daqqa: A Parallel Life" details the complex logistical and emotional challenges faced by Daqqa's family, including the clandestine process of sperm smuggling that led to Milad's birth. This event highlights the enduring human desire for connection and continuation even under extreme duress.

The film also touches upon Daqqa's later years, during which he battled cancer. His continued imprisonment despite his deteriorating health and Israel's refusal to grant him release underscore the contentious issue of Palestinian prisoners' rights and medical care within the Israeli prison system.

The narrative culminates with Milad's powerful chant, "Freedom for our prisoners. For my father," a poignant reflection of a struggle that continues beyond her father's life. The documentary serves as a testament to Daqqa's enduring spirit and the ongoing fight for justice for Palestinian detainees.

"Walid Daqqa: A Parallel Life" offers a deeply personal look at resilience, love, and resistance within the confines of a prison, challenging perceptions of life lived under prolonged incarceration and advocating for the humanity of those imprisoned.