Abu Obaida issues first statement of Ramadan amid fragile Gaza truce

Abu Obaida, spokesperson of Hamas’ military wing Al-Qassam Brigades, issued the group’s first statement as the fragile Gaza truce faces breakdown at the start of the holy month of Ramadan.

“Despite the enemy’s attempts at deception, we have adhered to the agreement to spare our people’s blood and deny them pretexts for escalation,” Abu Obaida said of the ceasefire agreement, after the first phase ended last week and mediators are scrambling to push “Israel” and Hamas to agree to the second phase.

“The enemy’s leadership is attempting to evade the agreement as [Netanyahu] prioritizes political interests over the lives of its captives."

Abu Obaida said “Israel” is seeking US approval to escalate its military actions in Gaza, adding that Palestinian detainees in “Israeli” custody continue to suffer mistreatment, while asserting that Hamas has treated “Israeli” captives humanely despite the brutal war waged on Gaza.

He further said that “Israel” had failed to achieve its objectives through war and would not succeed through threats or deception. According to him, the quickest path to a resolution lies in compelling “Israel” to uphold its commitments to the ceasefire.

Abu Obaida warned that “Israeli” military threats would not secure the release of captives and cautioned the families of “Israeli” captives, stating that Hamas possesses proof of life for those still alive. He placed responsibility for the suffering and deaths of captives on “Israel”, accusing it of evading agreements.

Reaffirming Hamas’ readiness for any scenario, he cautioned that any escalation would put “Israeli” captives at risk. He also claimed that the group has the capability to inflict significant harm on “Israel” in future confrontations.

Describing “Israel’s” threats as a sign of weakness, Abu Obaida warned that if hostilities resume, Hamas would continue to challenge the “Israeli” military.

He also expressed gratitude to allied forces in Yemen, acknowledging their commitment to supporting Hamas and their readiness to strike “Israeli” targets if needed.