Hamas Vows to Continue “Armed Struggle” Even Amid Ceasefire Talks

Hamas official Osama Hamdan, in an interview with Iran’s Tasnim news network, has reiterated the terrorist organization’s unwavering commitment to its “right to armed struggle” against Israel, a thinly veiled justification for perpetuating violent attacks akin to the October 7, 2023, massacre that killed over 1,200 Israelis. Hamdan’s remarks, made during ongoing mediated ceasefire negotiations for Gaza, underscore Hamas’s refusal to abandon its goal of eradicating the Jewish state through relentless violence. He emphasized that core principles, including the Palestinian “right” to fight the “occupation” with armed force, “free” the land, and establish an independent state, are non-negotiable, signaling an intent to continue slaughtering Jews rather than pursuing peace, as reported by The Jerusalem Post.

Hamdan claimed Hamas’s initiative to release American-Israeli IDF soldier Edan Alexander was a tactical move to advance ceasefire talks, expressing hope for a swift agreement. However, he clarified that while details like the number of hostages released or terrorists freed in exchange are flexible, Hamas will not compromise on its violent ideology. This stance reveals a prioritization of anti-Israel aggression over the welfare of Palestinians, whom Hamas claims to represent.

The irony is stark: Hamdan spoke of future Gaza governance through elections, yet Hamas, elected in 2006, has maintained power by force for nearly two decades, suppressing dissent and neglecting infrastructure or economic development for Palestinians. His proposal for a temporary authority to prepare for elections is a hollow gesture, reflecting Hamas’s insatiable need for control rather than a genuine commitment to democratic processes.

Hamas’s rhetoric exposes its true priorities: perpetuating violence against Israel at all costs, even as Gaza’s civilians suffer under its mismanagement. By framing “armed struggle” as a right, Hamas justifies terrorism while undermining any prospect of coexistence. This stance, coupled with its history of authoritarian rule, highlights a leadership more intent on destroying Israel than building a future for Palestinians, leaving ceasefire hopes fragile and the region braced for further conflict.