Khaled Meshaal: Resistance remains as long as occupation persists, Gaza must be governed by Palestinians

OCCUPIED PALESTINE, Feb. 08 (YPA) – Khaled Meshaal, head of Hamas movement abroad, affirmed, on Sunday, that the Palestinian cause is passing through a pivotal stage that requires rebuilding a comprehensive national vision, stressing that resistance will remain a central option as long as the occupation continues, and that Israel has become a source of regional and international threat.

Meshaal’s remarks came during his speech at the 17th Al Jazeera Forum in Doha, titled “The Palestinian Cause and Regional Balances.”

He considered the recognition of the State of Palestine by 159 countries a positive step, but insufficient unless it is translated into political reality on the ground through joint Palestinian, Arab, and international efforts.

He explained that the philosophy of resistance is based on the principle that the existence of the occupation means the existence of resistance, rejecting calls for the disarmament of Gaza, and affirmed that the movement proposed a truce extending between five and seven years within approaches that guarantee stability without compromising fundamental principles.

Meshaal called for formulating a national vision for the post-aggression phase based on the reconstruction and recovery of Gaza, while Palestinians adhere to their rights. He reiterated his rejection of any foreign trusteeship or rule over the Strip, saying that Gaza must be governed by Palestinians.

Regionally, he considered Israel a threat to the region, calling for a joint Arab and Islamic strategy to confront this threat, and pointing to increasing shifts in international public opinion and growing sympathy for the Palestinian cause.

In addition, he held the occupation responsible for the continued instability, calling on international powers to deal with the Palestinian issue with an objective vision, away from political pressures.