Abu Obaida, spokesperson for Hamas military wing “Al-Qassam Brigades”. (File photo)
Abu Obaida on Oct. 7 anniversary: 'Our land nurtures resistors, just like olives'
On the anniversary of Hamas’ Operation Aqsa Typhoon against “Israel” on October 7, Abu Obaida, the military spokesperson of Al-Qassam Brigades, released a pre-recorded video statement on the occasion.
"The martyrdom of leaders Haniyeh and Nasrallah is clear evidence that the enemy does not understand the nature of resistance," Abu Obaida said. "If assassinations were a victory, the resistance against the occupation would have ended long ago."
He added that "Our option is to continue a long and painful war of attrition against the enemy."
Highlighting a year since what he described as the most professional commando operation in the world, Abu Obaida emphasized its powerful impact on the enemy.
He said, "Today, the summary of the reality in the region is a legendary Palestinian people. The legendary steadfastness of the Palestinian people in the face of aggression and American complicity."
Abu Obaida stated that Operation Aqsa Typhoon was a direct response to the enemy's violations against Aqsa Mosque and the treatment of prisoners. He reaffirmed the commitment to defending Palestinian rights and sacred sites, emphasizing that such operations are crucial in the ongoing struggle against aggression and oppression.
In his speech, he made a direct address to Hezbollah fighters: "We say today to our brothers in Hezbollah that we have full confidence in your strength and might."
Reflecting on the past year of war, Abu Obaida said, "We have fought for an entire year in an unequal battle against a criminal enemy."
He criticized the 'Israeli' government's intentions, stating, "The occupation government does not want to see a single Palestinian west of the Jordan River."
He also referenced recent attacks, stating, "The latest operation in Yafa is just one chapter of what is to come, and what’s coming will be even harsher, God willing."
He reiterated that "The enemy only understands the language of force, and weapons can only be countered by weapons."
Abu Obaida emphasized Al-Qassam’s efforts to safeguard captives, stating, "From day one, we have worked to protect the captives in our custody and ensure their safety."
He directed a message to the 'Israeli' public, saying, "You could have recovered your captives a year ago, but Netanyahu continues to refuse."
He revealed that "We have orders in place that if our captives are endangered or there are close skirmishes, they will be moved to different locations."
Abu Obaida warned that "The risks to the enemy's captives in Gaza grow day by day."
He concluded with calls for action, urging, "We call for the largest cyberattack against the enemy by electronic warfare experts," and "We urge the scholars of the Ummah to declare the obligation of jihad against the enemy of the nation."