He gained popularity across the Middle East with his touching renditions of patriotic Palestinian songs . Mohammed Assaf , 22 , is the first `` Arab Idol '' finalist from Gaza . He was born in a refugee camp and grew up with his family in an abandoned house on the outskirts of Jerusalem. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called to congratulate the college student last weekend .
Mohammed Assaf , 22 , is the first `` Arab Idol '' finalist from Gaza . He was born in a refugee camp and grew up with his family in an abandoned house on the outskirts of Jerusalem. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called to congratulate the college student last weekend .