Deputy Head of Hamas’ Political Bureau, Sheikh Saleh al-Arouri, stated Monday that the movement delivered a firm message to the Israeli occupation that tampering with two matters would unleash hell. In an interview with Al Mayadeen, he explained that the first concerns Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque, including banning worshippers or attacking them, while the second involves Palestinian prisoners. He said all parties were informed that if Ramadan begins with prisoners still on hunger strike, it would trigger explosions.
He noted frenzied efforts by the occupation and world and regional actors to contain possible developments during Ramadan, stressing that the occupation faces a test in Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa, and if worshippers are banned or harmed, the situation will blow up.
Al-Arouri said the Sword of Jerusalem operation exposed severe strategic threats to the enemy, especially its loss of societal security, as Palestinians in the interior rose up in support of Jerusalem and Gaza.
He spoke about the West Bank’s role, stating: “The West Bank engaged in the battle for Jerusalem more deeply than shown in media focused on events in Gaza.” He added: “If a battle erupts with the occupation, the West Bank will explode completely both popularly and in terms of resistance.”
On resistance readiness during the Sword of Jerusalem battle, he said they were prepared for a prolonged war possibly lasting months, and the 11-day war they fought was a prelude to this preparation. “We are not saying in advance that we’re heading for a full confrontation, but if the occupation escalates, we are ready,” he added.
He suggested the next confrontation with the occupation could be broader both popularly and officially, marking a turning point in the conflict’s history, noting ongoing meetings with Hezbollah, some public and many private.
Al-Arouri affirmed that Palestinian resistance forces enjoy strong alliances and coordination with countries, movements, and peoples.
He considered the uprising of Palestinians in occupied territories a major concern for the occupation, noting that recent operations in Hadera and Beersheba confirmed Palestinian unity everywhere against it.
He called on Palestinians in the West Bank, Gaza, Israel, and diaspora to join Land Day events.
He stressed that any move to normalize or legitimize the Zionist entity constitutes aggression against the Palestinian people, Jerusalem, and the broader nation.
