In a recent speech, former Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal described the current situation in Gaza as a “holocaust,” referring to the devastation caused by the ongoing conflict with Israel. Mashaal stated that the October 7 attacks were a result of blocked political avenues, leading to what he called “strategic results” for Hamas. He thanked groups like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iran for their support, urging Arab nations to provide financial aid to Gaza.
Mashaal also claimed that Israel, after failing to meet its objectives in Gaza, had opened a new front with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and accused Israel of working against both Jordan and Egypt. Despite the significant losses, including over 40,000 deaths in Gaza over the past year, Mashaal assured his people that victory would come soon.
However, his comments were met with criticism from Mahmoud Al-Habash, an advisor to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Al-Habash called Mashaal’s remarks “empty slogans” and emphasized the need to protect Palestinian civilians. He also condemned Hamas for its lack of unity with the Palestinian Authority.
Meanwhile, protests have erupted worldwide, from the Middle East to Europe, the US, and Asia, with demonstrators calling for an end to the violence. Many have described the situation in Gaza as “genocide” and are urging the international community to take action.