Hamas Official Praises October 7 Attack

Ghazi Hamad, a prominent figure in Hamas’ Politics Bureau, openly celebrated the violent events of October 7, framing it as a pivotal moment for the recognition of a Palestinian state. In an interview with Al Jazeera aired recently, he claimed that this incident has brought significant attention to the Palestinian cause and underlined its importance on a global scale.

During the interview, which was broadcast by the Qatar-based network, Hamad linked the brutal attacks, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli casualties and numerous hostages, to a surge in diplomatic support for Palestine. He remarked, “What caused the world to recognize the Palestinian state today? What country would have dared to do so before?” He asserted that the repercussions of October 7 have compelled a shift in how the world perceives the Palestinian issue.

Hamad also emphasized that Palestinian armed resistance is fundamental to their struggle, stating, “Our weapons are part of our cause. Without them, no one would pay attention to us.” He described the connection between armed struggle and Palestinian identity as inseparable.

In a broader critique, Hamad attacked Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his administration for failing to generate international interest in a two-state solution. “For years, there was little discussion about any resolution,” he stated. “Hamas is revitalizing this issue on the world stage, which is why many nations are now acknowledging the Palestinian state.”

He expressed a sentiment of unwavering commitment to armed resistance within Palestinian society, indicating that it is ingrained from childhood. “We will not give up our weapons; any discussions on disarmament depend on a political solution,” he added.

Attempting to justify the violence of October 7, Hamad claimed that the actions were a necessary response to decades of perceived Israeli aggression. “We weren’t doing anything illegal; it was a reaction to years of oppression,” he explained.

He outlined what he deemed three “historical achievements” of the October 7 attacks: a resurgence of the Palestinian cause, a revelation of Israel’s vulnerabilities, and a demonstration that defeating Israel is attainable.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar reacted sharply, pointing out the absurdity of Hamas’ claims, while also thanking countries that have recognized the Palestinian state. “This turn of events should serve as a stark reminder of the implications of supporting such extremism,” he noted.

In a separate response, Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli called Hamad’s comments a “failed joke” and highlighted the stark discrepancies between Hamas’ actions and the international community’s responses, particularly concerning Israeli hostages taken by Hamas.

Hamad’s assertions echo prior threats from Hamas leadership, indicating a willingness to continue violence until Israel ceases to exist. His statements came amid rising international pressure on Israel following recent acknowledgments of Palestinian statehood by several nations, including Canada and various European countries.

This overt celebration of violence as a pathway to recognition illustrates a troubling reality: for Hamas, the pursuit of political goals through acts of terror is not merely justifiable but seen as a necessary strategy. This underlines the challenges in navigating the ongoing conflict and raises alarms for those advocating for peaceful resolutions.