Hamas leader: We will talk on our terms

He rejected calls for a ceasefire from his forces, saying that the fighting would continue alongside ceasefire talks.

GAZA (Religious Intelligencer) - The Hamas leader in Gaza Strip Ismail Haniyeh said in a televised speech on Monday that his organization would "cooperate with any initiative aimed at ending the Israeli aggression and bring about the enemy's withdrawal and the reopening of the crossings."

However, he rejected calls for a ceasefire from his forces, saying that the fighting would continue alongside ceasefire talks.

"We are certain that eventually we will achieve victory and crush the aggression," he said. "The people who have lost their loved ones or whose homes have been destroyed are displaying unprecedented resilience, and the population is continually encouraging us despite the crazy and indiscriminant bombings."

He claimed that at least half of the Palestinian casualties are women and children. He noted that "victory comes to those who believe and those who carry out Allah's commands."

The Hamas leader offered his blessings to the Palestinian fighters, saying "we embrace you and kiss your head and hands and the ground you walk on. You are the protectors of this nation's dignity and land. You are the makers of victory.

"After 17 days of fighting, I can say with certainty that Gaza and faith will prevail," he said. "The Palestinian people will triumph with Allah's help."

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This article first appeared in the Religious Intelligencer and is used with permission.