Hamas called the October 7 massacre a “towering milestone” in a statement commemorating the 38th anniversary of its founding.
“Al-Aqsa Flood was a towering milestone in our people’s march toward freedom and independence, and it will remain a firmly established landmark marking a true beginning for repelling the occupation and ending its presence on our land,” the Sunday release stated.
The terror group then said it would pursue its objectives “regardless of the sacrifices” while asserting that Israel had failed to achieve its war aims.
“We stand with pride and honor before the steadfastness, bravery, sacrifices, and resilience of our great people in all arenas, foremost among them our people in Gaza, the land of dignity, defiance, and loftiness, who struggled, persevered, and stood guard in defense of the land and holy sites on behalf of the entire nation,” the statement added.
Hamas called on mediators and the United States to enforce a ceasefire framework, open crossings, and accelerate humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Hamas says Oct. 7 massacre a victory on 38th anniversary of founding
It rejected any external “guardianship” over Gaza or wider Palestinian territories, insisting that Palestinians alone should decide governance, placed the release of Palestinian prisoners at the top of its priorities, and urged continued proceedings at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court.
The release said that Jerusalem and al-Aqsa Mosque remain the core of Hamas’s conflict with Israel and would “remain purely Islamic.”
Hamas then praised its supporters across the region and internationally, calling for expanded solidarity actions.
Hamas was established in 1987. It is an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. According to its charter, the organization was established to liberate Palestine from Israel in order to establish an Islamic state. It holds aspirations on all territory between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River and refuses to acknowledge Israel in any capacity.