Hamas Calls October 7 Attack 'Golden Moment' Amid Contested Gaza Conflict

Senior Hamas official Ghazi Hamad defended the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which killed 1,200 people and led to a severe Israeli retaliation resulting in over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians. Hamad described the attacks as a "golden moment" for the Palestinian cause, citing growing international condemnation of Israel's actions at the United Nations and the recognition of Palestinian statehood by multiple countries. He dismissed accusations of Hamas using hostages as human shields and denied reports of hostage abuse, asserting that captives are treated according to Islamic principles. Despite footage showing anti-Hamas protests in Gaza and criticism of the group's leadership, Hamad rejected calls for disarmament and blamed Israel for the suffering and dissent within Gaza. He also accused the US of lacking neutrality, suggesting it supports Israel's agenda, and expressed skepticism about ceasefire negotiations following an Israeli strike on Hamas leaders. Hamas remains committed to its armed resistance, viewing it as legitimate against occupation, and rejects any dissolution demands.