Statement from Hamas: Israel continues its aggression

In a written statement issued by Hamas, it was stated: "The occupying Israel's proposal to expand settlements on our occupied lands in the West Bank is a continuation of Zionist aggression against our lands, our people, and our sanctities."

"THIS POLICY IS AKIN TO POURING GASOLINE ON THE FIRE"

The statement, which assessed the proposal by far-right Israeli Minister Smotrich as a disregard for international law that rejects and criminalizes illegal settlements, included the following remarks:

"A strong and serious international stance is required to prevent the occupation government from continuing to expand settlement projects on our lands. This policy of Israel is akin to pouring gasoline on the fire."

The statement emphasized that Israel's efforts to expand settlements would fail in the face of the determination and resistance of the Palestinian people.

ISRAEL'S 8 BILLION DOLLAR ADDITIONAL 'WAR BUDGET'

The Israeli government approved an additional 8 billion dollar budget for its attacks in Gaza on November 27.

Far-right Finance Minister Smotrich, who supports the expansion of illegal Jewish settlements in Palestinian territories, had insisted on adding hundreds of millions of shekels to the budget for settlements despite the high cost of the conflicts in Gaza.

The Israeli non-governmental organization Peace Now had criticized the allocation of funds to Jewish settlements in the 8 billion dollar additional "war budget" prepared by the government.

The anti-settlement NGO described the Israeli government's transfer of money to settlements in the occupied West Bank while attacks on Gaza continue as "theft in the night."

News Source: AA