In an interview with ILKHA, Osama al-Hamdan, a prominent member of Hamas’s Political Bureau, provided insight into Hamas's stance on the possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza, the recent martyrdom of leader Yahya Sinwar, and the movement’s vision for the region’s future.

Hamdan spoke with conviction on Hamas’s non-negotiable conditions for a ceasefire, the strength of its leadership structure, and the movement’s determination to achieve a fully independent Palestinian state. His comments reflect a resolute approach to both the immediate challenges of the Gaza conflict and Hamas’s long-term goals.

ILKHA: Is there potential for a ceasefire agreement and a prisoner exchange in the Gaza Strip?

Hamdan: Right now, the Zionist entity is the primary barrier to any meaningful ceasefire. They are delaying negotiations to gain time and continue their aggressive actions. But we are very clear: any release of prisoners held by the resistance can only be achieved through a formal agreement. This agreement must meet several key conditions. First, it must include a total cessation of hostilities – that is, all attacks must come to a complete stop. Second, it must ensure that occupation forces fully withdraw from Gaza, with no conditions or delays. Third, the agreement must guarantee full and unrestricted support for Gaza’s reconstruction, as well as the provision of humanitarian aid to all those affected by the conflict.

We also insist on a fair prisoner exchange. This has to be on terms that respect our people’s dignity and basic rights. Past experience has shown that when the occupation tried to retrieve prisoners by force, this approach failed, and it became evident that an agreement was the only viable path forward. The last time prisoners were released alive was due to an agreement, not through force or military efforts. The occupier may attempt to obstruct the process temporarily, but ultimately, if they wish to see the return of their prisoners, it will only happen through a negotiated agreement with the resistance.

ILKHA: With Yahya Sinwar’s martyrdom, how will leadership transitions unfold within Hamas?

Hamdan: First, we ask Allah to accept our brother, the martyred leader Yahya Sinwar, and raise him to the highest ranks of Paradise. His martyrdom is not a setback for us but a source of inspiration. Abu Ibrahim, as we affectionately called Yahya Sinwar, embodied the spirit of courage, resilience, and dedication that we all strive to emulate. His legacy of jihad, sacrifice, and leadership serves as a model not only for our movement but for the entire Ummah.

As for leadership, it’s essential to understand that the movement is guided by a well-defined structure and established principles. Our internal processes are designed to ensure stability and continuity. We have institutions and mechanisms in place to make decisions collectively, in line with our internal charter. Hamas does not operate on a whim; we have clear protocols and procedures that govern leadership transitions. This means that decisions regarding succession are deliberate and reflect the broader will of the movement.

There have been rumors circulating in the media about a supposed “Leadership Council” or the selection of certain names to replace Sinwar. Such claims are nothing more than speculation, often spread by media outlets aligned with forces hostile to the resistance. These rumors aim to sow confusion, undermine our unity, or cast doubt on the movement’s strength. But we remain undivided, and our leadership is fully functional. We continue to operate effectively on both the political and military fronts. When any announcement on leadership succession is deemed necessary, it will come directly from the movement and will be clear to everyone. We do not let baseless rumors distract us.

ILKHA: Does the martyrdom of Yahya Sinwar affect Hamas's political strategy or negotiating stance?

Hamdan: Absolutely not. The martyrdom of Abu Ibrahim Sinwar has no bearing on our political principles or strategic framework. We are unwavering in our stance, and neither the assassination of our leaders nor the pressure of the occupation will alter our path. Our negotiating position remains clear and firm. We demand a full cessation of hostilities, complete withdrawal of occupation forces, unrestricted rebuilding efforts in Gaza, and a prisoner exchange under fair conditions.

Historically, the movement has negotiated and engaged in discussions only within the bounds of these core demands, which represent the rights of our people. Assassinating leaders may be intended to weaken or intimidate us, but in reality, it only strengthens our resolve and commitment to our mission. Abu Ibrahim’s martyrdom, while a loss, serves as a reminder of our cause, and it motivates us to push forward with even greater resolve. Our negotiating team is experienced and highly competent, and they have the full confidence of the movement. They will continue to uphold our principles, as they have done for months.

ILKHA: Where is the Aqsa Flood leading, and what are the movement’s plans post-conflict?

Hamdan: The Aqsa Flood is a movement of resilience and, inshallah, it will bring victory. This operation has shown the world the depth of our people’s determination and commitment. Despite the destruction, the loss of homes, institutions, and entire neighborhoods, our people have remained steadfast. They endure hunger, thirst, injuries, and constant trauma, yet they continue to sacrifice and resist. We believe Allah, in His mercy, will reward their steadfastness and that this Flood will ultimately end in victory.

We do not approach this struggle randomly or reactively. Hamas operates with a clear plan, a strategic vision focused on liberation, the return of our people to their rightful land, and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. When we speak of “the day after,” we refer to the day of national triumph, the realization of Palestinian self-determination, and the fulfillment of our people’s will. This vision is exclusively Palestinian, and its benefits will be enjoyed solely by our people, inshallah.

In the immediate future, we will continue to pursue the goals of this operation. Victory in the Aqsa Flood is not just about winning battles but achieving long-term objectives: liberation, independence, and the establishment of a fully sovereign state. The movement’s commitment to this cause remains undeterred, and we will continue to plan and fight toward this end with faith, strategy, and determination. (ILKHA)