Al-Hayya: Palestinian Resistance Will Never Surrender

Khalil al-Hayya, the acting chief of Hamas in Gaza, expressed his defiant stance during an interview with Al-Aqsa TV on Wednesday, reaffirming the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people, especially in the Gaza Strip. Al-Hayya firmly declared that the Palestinians would never surrender or raise the white flag, stressing that resistance would continue in all forms to defend their land and cause. He emphasized that national unity among the Palestinian people is crucial for achieving victory in the ongoing struggle against the Israeli occupation.

Al-Hayya highlighted that Hamas is closely monitoring the current Israeli aggression in Gaza, describing it as unprecedented. He accused Israel of attempting to annihilate life in Gaza through widespread killing, displacement, and destruction. He pointed out that the Israeli attacks are not limited to Gaza but extend to the West Bank, Jerusalem, and other areas within the Green Line, with civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, being targeted indiscriminately. According to Al-Hayya, this aggression is aimed at emptying Gaza of its people.

The Hamas leader also referenced the Israeli occupation’s implementation of the so-called “Generals’ Plan,” which seeks to divide the Gaza Strip into northern and southern zones. He noted the severe impact of these attacks, particularly on northern Gaza, where the occupation has besieged and starved thousands of residents who have chosen to stay in their homes. In the southern part of Gaza, particularly in Rafah, he stated that the area has become almost deserted, as the Israeli military controls the region, with immediate killings of Palestinians who attempt to approach northern Rafah.

Despite the ongoing aggression, Al-Hayya underscored the Palestinian resistance’s unwavering strength and resilience. He confirmed that all resistance factions are actively engaged in defending Gaza, with reports showing that the resistance in northern Gaza has led to the deaths of over 30 Israeli soldiers. This steadfast resistance, according to Al-Hayya, is a clear demonstration of the Palestinians’ commitment to their cause.

Addressing the issue of a potential prisoner swap, Al-Hayya made it clear that no deal would occur unless the war in Gaza came to an end. He reiterated Hamas’s position on the matter, emphasizing that the continuation of the war made any negotiations regarding prisoners impossible. While there are ongoing communications with mediating countries, Al-Hayya criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for stalling the peace process, accusing him of delaying talks for political reasons. Al-Hayya stressed the need for a genuine commitment from the Israeli side to end the aggression, highlighting the importance of these mediations in achieving peace and resolving the conflict.

In conclusion, Al-Hayya’s statements reinforced Hamas’s firm resolve to continue the struggle against the Israeli occupation and its aggression. He called for unity among the Palestinian people and made it clear that the resistance would not back down in the face of Israeli attacks. At the same time, he left the door open for negotiations, provided there is a clear commitment from Israel to end the violence and work toward peace.