A senior Hamas official has hailed the recent missile strike on the Israeli city of Ashkelon as a courageous and justified act of resistance against Israel’s relentless aggression and genocidal campaign targeting the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Speaking on Sunday, Hamas spokesperson Jihad Taha framed the attack as a necessary response to the brutal atrocities inflicted by the Israeli occupation.

“The bombing of Ashkelon is a testament to the resilience of our people, a direct answer to the occupation’s ceaseless crimes, massacres, and war of extermination,” Taha declared. He praised the Palestinian resistance for its strategic brilliance, noting, “Our fighters are managing this struggle with wisdom and possess the strength to expose the fragility of the Zionist regime.”

Taha passionately condemned the international community’s silence and complicity in the face of Israel’s actions, vowing that the Palestinian resistance would not stand idly by. “The strike on Ashkelon is a rightful retaliation against the occupation’s genocidal policies,” he said, underscoring that Hamas holds “powerful cards” capable of shaking the foundations of the Israeli regime.

On the issue of a ceasefire, Taha affirmed Hamas’ openness to any proposal that would end Israel’s savage onslaught, but he placed the burden squarely on the occupiers. “We yearn for peace and an end to this bloodshed, but the occupation must honor a ceasefire. The responsibility lies with them,” he insisted. He lambasted Israel and its staunch supporter, the United States, for derailing peace efforts, stating, “The American administration and mediators know the true obstacle is the Zionist side. Washington must face the undeniable truth of the Palestinian struggle.”

Taha also drew strength from the global wave of solidarity with Palestine, pointing to the countless protests and marches worldwide as evidence of unwavering support. “The voices of the people, ringing out across the globe, stand with Gaza in our fight for justice,” he said.

As Israeli forces continue their merciless operations in Gaza, claiming hundreds of innocent lives in recent days, the Palestinian resistance stands firm. Taha’s words reflect a broader call for liberation, rejecting any attempt by Israel or its allies to impose conditions on a people enduring unimaginable suffering. Amid the devastation, Hamas remains steadfast, buoyed by a world increasingly awakening to the Palestinian plight. (ILKHA)