TV4 meets one of Hamas’s leaders and spokespersons, Osama Hamdan, in Lebanon. He has belonged to Hamas for several decades and has represented the group on many occasions.
He and everyone who lives outside Gaza and represents terrorist-listed Hamas have a constant threat to them, and the interview takes place with certain security restrictions.
Before the meeting, the TV4 News team is given an address to go to. From there, the team is picked up and driven to another location where the interview is conducted.
– I am not worried about the threat picture. If I die, I will be replaced by someone else. Maybe that person is better, says Osama Hamdan.
What led up to the attack on October 7?
– Israel has gained more and more rights, with a long blockade of Gaza and more and more illegal settlers. And nobody cared about Palestine anymore, we were a lost cause. We needed to show that we are still fighting for an independent state.
Hamas leader: No rapes
Hamas’ attack on October 7 shocked Israel and the rest of the world. Around 1,500 Hamas militants crossed into southern Israel. According to Israel, around 1,200 Israelis, both civilians and soldiers, were killed.
Accusations and testimonies of excessive violence have been massive, and in recent weeks Israeli authorities have also spoken of brutal sexual violence.
– Militarily, the operation went as it should, but according to the Qassam Brigade, they thought it would take 24 hours. It was clear in six hours. There, a new situation opened up where Gazans poured into what they consider to be their homeland. At that moment there was chaos and no one can guarantee what happened, says Osama Hamdan.
However, he dismisses accusations of rape as Israeli propaganda. If it did happen, he believes it was against Hamas’ instructions.
– I cannot defend something like that, in which case that person must undergo a legal process.
Armistice far away
Right now there is a lot of talk about the possibility of a new possible ceasefire with an exchange between hostages and Palestinian prisoners. According to several sources, Hamas’ top political leader Haniye is in Egypt to negotiate.
– We have informed everyone concerned that if Israel continues its attacks, we will continue our resistance. But if there is any idea about a ceasefire, we are ready to discuss it.
For there to be a long-lasting peace, he believes that the outside world must join in. The Hamas leader places great responsibility on the United States and its support for Israel.
– If they stop sending weapons to Israel, they send an important signal. Then maybe the US can play a role in resolving the situation. But I don’t think that will happen.