WANA (Oct 11) – In a joint statement, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas expressed gratitude for the support of Iran, Yemen, Lebanon, and Iraq for the Palestinian resistance and for those who have given their lives in defense of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

 

The statement read: “We commend the heroes of the resistance who stood firm amid the rubble, resisted the destructive machinery of the occupiers, broke the morale of the enemy, and inflicted significant damage through their unique operations. We emphasize that the will of our people and the resistance fighters is stronger than all efforts to force surrender or destruction. For more than two years, the enemy has failed to break the steadfastness and determination of this resistance, despite possessing a vast and deadly arsenal.”

 

The statement further highlighted: “We proudly salute the support fronts in Yemen, Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq, who stood alongside our people and their resistance, and sacrificed martyrs for Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa. We honor their contributions and deeply appreciate the efforts of mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, as well as all who supported this path.”

People hold Palestinian flags as they attend an anti-Israel gathering following the killing of Palestinian group Hamas' top leader Ismail Haniyeh, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Tehran, Iran July 31, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

People hold Palestinian flags as they attend an anti-Israel gathering following the killing of Palestinian group Hamas’s top leader Ismail Haniyeh, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Tehran, Iran, July 31, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Regarding detainees, the statement emphasized: “The occupiers continue to prevent the release of numerous prisoners. We call on the United States and mediators to maintain pressure on the occupiers to ensure compliance with the agreement. We have decided to continue implementing the agreement to guarantee a halt to hostilities.”

 

The movements also praised global solidarity: “We greatly appreciate the unprecedented international solidarity that has stood with our people, raising its voice against genocide and pursuing the crimes of the occupiers. This worldwide support sends a powerful message that our people’s cause is a global political and humanitarian issue. It strengthens the morale of our resilient people and confirms that the occupiers are an isolated, besieged entity.”

 

Finally, the statement addressed ongoing negotiations: “Despite continuous attempts by the occupiers to obstruct the negotiation process, hinder agreements, and efforts by Netanyahu to prolong the war, the Palestinian negotiation team has focused on the people’s demands to end the genocidal conflict. To date, the team has reached an agreement to implement the first phase of this process, representing a crucial step toward our immediate goals: ending the criminal war permanently, halting the aggression on Gaza, withdrawing from occupied territories, and lifting the siege.”

Members of Basij paramilitary forces stage a mock arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu during a rally in support of Palestinians, in Tehran, Iran, October 13, 2023. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)