Hamas calls on Islamic countries: 'Pressure must be applied on Israel'

Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh stated that "Hamas is prepared for a long-term war and has opened the door to strategic transformations through the struggle it is waging." 

Haniyeh also addressed Islamic countries, calling for pressure to be applied on Israel. 

According to a report in BirGün, Haniyeh made statements in a video recording regarding the ongoing clashes in Gaza and the decisions taken at the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)-Arab League Joint Extraordinary Summit.

"WE WILL DEFEAT THE OCCUPIER IN GAZA"

"The resistance is engaged in a strategic struggle with Israel and will emerge from it only with victory," Haniyeh said, continuing as follows:

"If Israel wants this war to be long-term, our breath will be longer than theirs. The resistance will be the side that has the final say in this war, and the world will see that the Al-Qassam Brigades and the resistance forces will defeat the occupier in Gaza, just as they did 18 years ago."

DECISIONS TAKEN AT THE ARAB SUMMIT

Addressing Islamic countries, Haniyeh noted the following:

"Gaza has set an example unseen in the Islamic world for 100 years. Despite the blockade and hardships, Gaza has opened the door to strategic transformations and written history. It has dealt a major blow to the foundations of the Zionist project."

In his speech, Haniyeh also touched upon the OIC-Arab League Joint Extraordinary Summit held in Riyadh on November 11, and called for the implementation of decisions taken at this summit, such as "the cessation of hostilities, the entry of aid into Gaza, the protection of holy sites, and the recognition of the Palestinian people's right to independence and return."

Referring to the UN Security Council's resolution yesterday (November 16) demanding an "urgent and extended pause" in fighting in Gaza, Haniyeh said that pressure must be applied on Israel to stop the attacks, open border crossings, permanently lift the blockade, and recognize the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.