Hamas: We are ahead of decisive moments, awaiting reply on Gaza deal

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
21 Nov 2023 22:47

The deputy chairman of Hamas in Gaza confirms that Hamas is currently waiting for a reply on its proposal.

Deputy chairman of Hamas in Gaza Khalil al-Hayya (R) and senior leader in the party Osama Hamdan in a press conference in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, on November 21, 2023 (Social media)

The deputy chairman of Hamas in Gaza, Khalil al-Hayya, confirmed on Tuesday that critical moments are at hand regarding a potential temporary truce agreement with the Israeli occupation entity that would see the first exchange of prisoners since Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.

Khalil al-Hayya announced that Hamas has delivered its response to Qatar and Egypt concerning the latest truce proposal, stating, "We are now waiting for a reply."

During a press conference held by the Resistance party in the Lebanese capital of Beirut, al-Hayya clarified that discussions have been ongoing for a month, stressing that the entity has been evading the finalization of an agreement mediated by Doha and Cairo.

No displacement, no expulsion

In his remarks, al-Hayya touched upon the Israeli aggression on Gaza, emphasizing the theatrics of the occupation regarding the existence of Palestinian Resistance tunnels under the Al-Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza, calling it a farcical play that no one believes.

He added that "Israel" continues to fabricate such narratives to justify its bombing and targeting of hospitals and vital civilian infrastructure in the Strip. Reaffirming the party's position, the Hamas top official asserted that the Resistance did not use any hospital for military purposes or leadership activities, neither in Al-Shifa nor in any other health facility known for its humanitarian role.

Moreover, al-Hayya pointed out that the occupation army has converted Al-Shifa Hospital and the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza into military barracks. By targeting these hospitals and medical staff amid a blockade causing a severe fuel shortage, he stressed that "Israel" aims to put the healthcare system on halt, particularly in northern Gaza.

He recalled that the targeting of northern areas is part of the occupation's plans to forcefully displace Gaza's residents to the southern regions. In this context, al-Hayya emphasized the steadfastness of the people of Gaza, stating, "There will be no displacement or exile."

Victory is the only option

Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to the intensified criminal Israeli blockade, al-Hayya warned against deceiving the public with selective information. He noted that on the day when the most aid trucks entered, only 100 arrived, insufficient to meet the minimum needs of the population.

Al-Hayya called for the Rafah Crossing to remain fully and permanently open to ensure the uninterrupted entry of fuel, food, and medicine and the exit of patients with serious conditions.

Regarding the Israeli bombardment of the Strip, al-Hayya stated that "Israel" has not achieved any significant military success on the ground, only committing war crimes and horrific massacres. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Resistance continues its Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, with al-Hayya asserting that victory is the only option.