Hamas Leader Calls for Palestinian Unity, Criticizes Israeli Actions

Khalil al-Hayya, head of Hamas's political bureau, stated in a recent interview that the primary challenge facing Palestinians is the cessation of the ongoing Israeli aggression, which he described as reaching the level of "genocide." He asserted that Israeli settlement expansion and attacks in the West Bank, along with assaults on Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, are as severe as the conflict in Gaza. Al-Hayya lamented that the Palestinian cause is being "forgotten," noting that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas was prevented from addressing the UN General Assembly, unlike Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He acknowledged the immense difficulties of leadership amidst regional conflicts and the complex circumstances surrounding the Palestinian issue, emphasizing Hamas's commitment to overcoming these challenges.

Al-Hayya spoke about his family's sacrifices, including the deaths of his four sons, stating that these losses only strengthen his resolve. He highlighted the profound sacrifices of the Palestinian people, asserting that grief fuels their resilience. Regarding a potential Gaza agreement and future steps, al-Hayya reiterated Hamas's demand for the implementation of a "roadmap" agreed upon with mediators, urging Israel to adhere to its terms. He stressed that the Palestinian people continue to suffer from killing and displacement, with ongoing casualties and widespread need for basic shelter.

He extended an invitation to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas for dialogue to establish a national program and achieve genuine national unity to confront shared challenges. Al-Hayya affirmed Hamas's readiness for such talks, prioritizing the end of aggression before working on national unity. He expressed hope that Palestinian elections would serve as a catalyst for unifying Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem politically and geographically, and that national consensus would pave the way for rebuilding Palestinian institutions, starting with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). He also indicated that a coalition would remain open to all if elections are postponed, suggesting such a delay should be an opportunity for internal Palestinian reconciliation.

Al-Hayya observed a growing global rejection of the Israeli occupation and increased solidarity with Palestinians, seeing it as a sign of a new era for the Palestinian cause. He countered what he described as Israeli attempts to displace Palestinians, vowing continued resistance through legitimate means. He characterized the October 7th attacks as a response to attempts to erase the Palestinian issue and to the "criminal conduct" of the occupation.

Furthermore, al-Hayya revealed he has met with American officials more than four times in the past two years, presenting the Palestinian cause and Hamas's demands for liberation. These discussions, he said, addressed Israeli conduct and Hamas's commitments, with Hamas providing "facts and figures" on Israeli actions. He insisted that regional stability is contingent upon Palestinians achieving their rights and establishing a state. Al-Hayya also commented on the role of Nikolay Mladenov, the UN's special coordinator, acknowledging Hamas's mixed feelings towards him but urging him to fulfill his role, noting that Israel requires international pressure to comply with international will. He reiterated Hamas's acceptance of Mladenov's roadmap and expressed frustration that the international system is unable to hold Israel accountable, blaming the occupation for missed opportunities and the deaths of Israeli hostages. He also stated that Arab and Islamic nations are ready to provide aid to Gaza, but Israel obstructs its delivery. Al-Hayya concluded by describing Hamas's political relations as "balanced" and expressed the movement's desire to expand them to serve the Palestinian cause, mentioning Hamas's offer to mediate in Yemen.