The Secretary-General of the Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine, Ziyad al-Nakhalah, emphasized that the steadfastness of the Palestinian people was the decisive factor that forced the enemy to agree to a ceasefire and withdraw from Gaza.

In a televised speech, al-Nakhalah stated, "We will emerge from this battle more committed to our right to life and our homeland, and we will emerge with our weapons in our hands." He stressed that the enemy would be compelled to retreat from the areas it entered in Gaza.

Al-Nakhalah also highlighted the importance of internal unity, saying, "We face a greater battle and more significant challenges than confronting the enemy—our internal front and ensuring unity."

Reflecting on Operation al-Aqsa Flood, al-Nakhalah expressed gratitude to allies who supported the Palestinian cause. He praised Hezbollah in Lebanon for their sacrifices, including the martyrdom of leaders, and commended the steadfast leadership of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

He acknowledged Iran's enduring support over the decades, which culminated in their role in the "True Promise," and highlighted Yemen's remarkable participation in the Operation al-Aqsa Flood, calling it a pivotal moment for the Palestinian people and the region. Al-Nakhalah also noted the contributions of resistance forces in Iraq.

Furthermore, he expressed gratitude to Qatar and Egypt for their efforts in mediating to stop the aggression against the Palestinian people.

Ben-Gvir threatens resignation

Far-right Israeli Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced Thursday that his Otzma Yehudit party would leave the coalition government if the recently mediated ceasefire agreement with Hamas is approved.

Ben-Gvir sharply criticized the deal, describing it as "reckless" and claiming it includes concessions that undermine the Israeli occupation achievements. "The agreement involves releasing hundreds of murderers, the return of hundreds of thousands of Gaza residents to the northern sector, including thousands of terrorists, withdrawal from the Philadelphi Route, and a ceasefire," he stated. According to Ben-Gvir, the deal "ends all the accomplishments we have achieved for the state and does not ensure the release of all the hostages."

Emphasizing his party's position, Ben-Gvir declared that Otzma Yehudit, under his leadership, "does not topple Netanyahu nor cooperate with the left and its goals against the government. However, we cannot remain part of a government that approves a deal providing a significant reward to Hamas and risks another catastrophe like October 7."

Israeli Channel 12 journalist Liel Dafna suggested that Ben-Gvir's stance aims to draw Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist Party, and Likud Knesset members into opposing the agreement. Dafna noted that Ben-Gvir has not yet resigned to maintain pressure on the coalition while attempting to rally additional opposition to the deal.