Any Gaza-Related Steps Require Full End of Aggression: Hamas
Resistance movement rejects US-led “Board of Peace,” insists on lifting siege, ending occupation, and guaranteeing Palestinian rights
Iran | PUREWILAYAH.COM — The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) stated on Thursday that any political arrangements concerning the Gaza Strip must be founded on a complete halt to Israeli aggression, the lifting of the siege, and the full guarantee of the Palestinian people’s legitimate national rights, foremost among them the right to freedom and self-determination.
The statement was issued in response to the convening of the so-called “Board of Peace” session on Gaza in the United States.
“Any political path or arrangements discussed regarding the Gaza Strip and the future of our Palestinian people must be based on a complete halt of the aggression, lifting the siege, and guaranteeing the legitimate national rights of our people, most importantly their right to freedom and self-determination,” Hamas said.
Session Held Amid Ongoing Israeli Violations
Hamas stressed that holding international discussions while Israeli crimes continue on the ground places a direct responsibility on participating states to move beyond rhetoric and take enforceable action.
“The convening of this session, amid the ongoing crimes of the occupation and its continuous violations of the ceasefire agreement, obligates the international community and the parties participating in the Board to take practical steps that compel the occupation to halt its aggression,” the statement said.
The movement added that these steps must include opening all crossings, ensuring the unimpeded flow of humanitarian assistance, and launching immediate reconstruction efforts.
“This includes opening the crossings, allowing the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid, and immediately starting the reconstruction,” Hamas emphasized.
Call for Accountability and Permanent Ceasefire
The statement also addressed the role of international mediators, calling on them to uphold their obligations and prevent Israel from obstructing agreed commitments.
“Hamas calls on international parties and mediators to assume their responsibilities in ensuring the implementation of what has been agreed upon, preventing the occupation from obstructing the humanitarian and political entitlements,” the movement said.
It further urged mediators to pursue a lasting cessation of hostilities rather than temporary arrangements.
“And [to] work seriously to establish a permanent ceasefire,” the statement added.
Occupation Identified as Root Cause
Hamas concluded by rejecting political initiatives that ignore the underlying cause of the Gaza crisis, warning that stability cannot be achieved without confronting Israeli occupation itself.
“Any genuine international effort to achieve stability in Gaza must be based on addressing the root causes of the problem, namely the occupation, ending its aggressive policies, and enabling our Palestinian people to gain their full and complete rights,” the movement stated.
The statement was issued on 19 February 2026 and published on the movement’s official channels. (PW)