Khalil al-Hayya, a key member of Hamas' political bureau and head of the movement in Gaza, celebrated the recent cease-fire agreement, describing the events of October 7, 2023, as a "miraculous and military accomplishment" by the Al-Qassam Brigades.

Al-Hayya underscored the resilience of the Palestinian people, stating, "Gaza has proven that our enemy will not defeat our people and our resistance."

The cease-fire, announced by Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, comes after a grueling 15 months of conflict where Israel was accused of committing acts of genocide and numerous massacres. The agreement aims to halt hostilities and initiate a process of recovery and reconstruction in Gaza.

Al-Hayya highlighted the significant impact of what he called the "Al-Aqsa Flood" on the enemy, insisting that the Palestinian struggle will continue until full rights are restored and the occupation ends. He criticized the occupation's war efforts as a stain on humanity's conscience, particularly those who remained silent or complicit.

He praised the bravery of Al-Qassam fighters and the Saraya Al-Quds of Islamic Jihad, noting their role in unprecedented operations that have left a mark on the conflict. He also acknowledged the support from various fronts, expressing gratitude to Hezbollah in Lebanon, Ansar Allah in Yemen, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Iraqi resistance for their contributions to the Palestinian cause.

The mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, which had previously stalled, finally bore fruit, thanks in part to pressure from Stephen Mnuchin, Trump's envoy to the Middle East, who pushed for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make necessary concessions. This diplomatic push was timed just before Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration on January 20.

Hamas, through its political bureau, engaged with the ceasefire proposal with "full responsibility and positivity," aiming to end the aggression and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The movement's leadership met to discuss the mediators' proposal, reflecting on their duty towards the steadfast population of Gaza.

Al-Hayya also recognized the supportive stances from countries like Türkiye, South Africa, Algeria, Russia, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the global community of free people who have shown solidarity with Palestine.

As Gaza moves into a phase of reconstruction and healing, the Palestinian leadership is focusing on solidarity, empathy, and the removal of the devastation caused by the conflict. This cease-fire represents not just a pause in fighting but a potential turning point towards peace and justice for the Palestinian people. (ILKHA)