In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric that threatens to undermine international peace efforts, Hamas's shadowy military commander Mohammed Deif has issued a stark rejection of former US President Donald Trump's proposed Middle East roadmap.
'We Will Never Surrender' Says Elusive Commander
The mysterious leader of Hamas's armed wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, broke his customary silence to deliver a blistering rebuke of the proposed peace agreement. In an audio message that sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, Deif declared: "We will not accept anything less than complete liberation of our land and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state."
Trump's Controversial Proposal Faces Immediate Opposition
The rejected peace plan, championed by the former US president during his administration, had promised significant economic incentives but required substantial territorial concessions from Palestinian leadership. Deif's statement represents the most forceful dismissal from any Hamas official to date, effectively torpedoing any hope of the group's participation in US-brokered negotiations.
Key points from Deif's declaration include:
- Complete rejection of any normalisation with Israel
- Vow to continue armed resistance until Palestinian demands are met
- Dismissal of economic incentives as insufficient
- Commitment to the 'right of return' for all Palestinian refugees
Regional Tensions Set to Escalate
Security analysts warn that this hardline position could trigger renewed violence in the region, with Israeli forces already on high alert. The timing is particularly sensitive given ongoing fragile ceasefire negotiations and increasing international pressure for a lasting resolution to the conflict.
Deif, who has survived multiple Israeli assassination attempts and is one of Israel's most wanted figures, remains a powerful symbol of resistance for many Palestinians. His statement underscores the deep divisions within Palestinian leadership and the significant obstacles facing any comprehensive peace agreement.
