ALBAWABA - In a recent development, Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniye has called upon US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to intensify efforts aimed at halting Israel's attacks on Gaza.
Speaking through video messages on Telegram and WhatsApp, Haniye expressed optimism that Blinken has gleaned valuable insights from the past three months, comprehending the serious errors that have resulted in unprecedented war crimes against Gaza's population. The focus of Heniyye's plea is on ending the attacks not only in Gaza but across all Palestinian territories.
Emphasizing the need for a comprehensive cessation of aggression, Heniyye urged officials meeting with Blinken in the Islamic and Arab worlds to underscore their strong connection to the inextricable Palestinian cause, crucial for the region's future and stability. Heniyye reiterated the Palestinian stance against Israeli occupation, asserting that stability and security remain elusive until Gaza attains sovereignty and freedom. He underscored the people's refusal to accept continued occupation.
As part of his Middle East tour, Blinken will discuss Gaza attacks, humanitarian aid, and the issue of prisoners between Hamas and Israel with officials from Greece, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Egypt, and the West Bank.
The conflict, sparked by Israel's occupation of Gaza on October 7, 2023, saw Hamas' armed wing, the Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades, launch a comprehensive attack against Israel citing continuous violations against Palestinians and sacred values. Israel claimed 1,200 Israelis died and 5,132 were injured in the October 7 attacks.
While a humanitarian pause occurred from November 24 to December 3, 2023, resulting in the mutual release of 81 Israelis and 240 Palestinians as prisoners, Israel continues to detain thousands of Palestinians. In the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem, 326 Palestinians lost their lives in attacks by Israeli forces and illegal Jewish settlers since October 7, 2023.
Ongoing border clashes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah since October 8, 2023, have led to the deaths of 28 Lebanese civilians, 147 Hezbollah members, 5 Israeli civilians, and 9 Israeli soldiers.
