The deadly operation led by Hamas on October 7th, which marked the bloodiest day in Israel’s history, continues to reverberate through the region. In a rare interview, Basem Naim, one of Hamas’ top political leaders, reflected on the events of that day and its aftermath. Speaking from Hamas’ office in Doha, Qatar, Naim insisted that the group has no regrets about the operation, though he admitted that mistakes were made.
Hamas leader tells NPR about Oct. 7 attack and the war with Israel A Hamas leader says the group has no regrets about the deadly Oct. 7th operation against Israel, but that mistakes happened that day https://t.co/FaPPSc8zJb pic.twitter.com/zuiq4j9B9T
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Naim, a German-educated surgeon and former health minister from Gaza, expressed astonishment at the rapid collapse of Israel’s defenses when Hamas militants breached the heavily fortified border. He explained that Hamas had not anticipated such a swift breakdown of Israel’s security, which led to unplanned actions and errors during the chaos.
“There is a difference between regrets and mistakes,” Naim stated, suggesting that the unanticipated collapse contributed to actions that were not originally part of the operation’s plan. Despite the widespread condemnation, he stood firm in defending the attack, framing it as a desperate act of resistance against years of suffocating siege.
Israel reported that the attack resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the capture of another 250 as hostages, making it the deadliest terrorist attack in the nation’s history. In response, Israel launched a massive military campaign in Gaza, resulting in nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths, including over 11,000 children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Among those killed were members of Naim’s own family, including his mother and grandchildren. Despite the devastation, Naim emphasized that the ongoing siege on Gaza leaves Palestinians with few options.
Remember how the October 7 War began: an unprovoked attack by Iran’s proxy army Hamas.
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“You are talking about a siege on Gaza, an inhuman, suffocating siege for 17 years,” Naim remarked. He noted that despite years of peaceful and armed resistance, negotiations, and recognition of Israel by other Palestinian groups, the situation for Palestinians has only worsened. He pointed out that Israel’s far-right government and the growing normalization of relations between Israel and Arab states like Saudi Arabia have further marginalized the Palestinian cause.
Reflecting on the broader conflict, Naim acknowledged the tremendous loss of life and infrastructure in Gaza but argued that these sacrifices are part of the price Palestinians are forced to pay in their struggle for independence. He also suggested that Hamas is open to a new political arrangement, calling for a unity government involving all Palestinian factions to govern Gaza and the West Bank, though Israel remains firmly opposed to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Two weeks after the interview, Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in Iran, allegedly by Israeli forces. In response, Hamas appointed Yahya Sinwar, believed to be the mastermind behind the October 7th attack, as Haniyeh’s successor. Naim warned that the killing of Hamas leaders would only strengthen the group’s resolve.
“If they disarm Hamas, if they smash Hamas today, they have already created, in Gaza Strip and in Palestine, a new generation… who will fight back,” Naim said, indicating that the conflict will persist unless Palestinians’ fundamental rights are recognized.
Palestinian influencer celebrates Hamas attack on October 7th by saying ‘Allah Akbar’
The same influencer cries when Israel responds. pic.twitter.com/TOOlHGNvBR
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As the war drags on, with no clear end in sight, Naim’s reflections underscore the enduring and deeply entrenched nature of the conflict between Hamas and Israel, a conflict that shows no sign of resolution. One thing we all know is there will be no peace, at least until President Trump takes office.
Major Points:
- A Hamas leader expressed no regrets for the October 7th operation but acknowledged mistakes were made during the attack.
- The leader described the overwhelming surprise at Israel’s rapid defense collapse during the operation.
- Israel’s retaliation has led to significant casualties and devastation in Gaza, affecting tens of thousands of civilians.
- Despite the heavy toll, the leader defended the operation as a necessary act to challenge the prolonged siege on Gaza.
- Hamas now seeks a unity government with other Palestinian factions to govern Gaza and the West Bank, though Israel remains opposed.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
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