Hamas marks Sinwar’s martyrdom anniversary, pledges to carry on his path of resistance against Israel

In a statement on Thursday issued on his first anniversary, Hamas vowed that “the flame of the Al-Aqsa Storm battle will not fade”, hailing the landmark operation on October 7, 2023 as a turning point in the fight against the Israeli occupation.

“The blood of our martyred leaders will continue to fuel the path of resistance for future generations,” the movement emphasized.

Hamas praised its political bureau chief’s leadership and resilience in confronting Israeli forces, calling his martyrdom, along with those of other fallen leaders, a lasting source of strength and inspiration for the Palestinian resistance.

“A full year has passed since that heroic epic witnessed by the entire world, led by the commander of the Al-Aqsa Flood battle, martyr Yahya al-Sinwar, who concluded his life and struggle, marked by unwavering resolve and sacrifice, by advancing without retreat, standing firm at the heart of the battle and defiantly brandishing a stick in his hand in the face of the occupation’s brutality and crimes,” the statement read.

Hamas also stressed that it proudly remembers Sinwar’s lifelong dedication to resistance, noting his steadfastness during 23 years of imprisonment and his post-release efforts in rebuilding and strategic planning, which culminated in the Al-Aqsa Storm operation.

“We proudly recall the noble legacy and blessed journey of Yahya al-Sinwar, who devoted his life to resistance from a young age, remaining steadfast and unyielding throughout 23 years of imprisonment, defying his jailers. After his release, he continued the path of preparation, rebuilding, and strategic planning, which culminated with the dawn of October 7, 2023, a moment that rocked the occupation, fractured its foundations, and shattered the myth of its army. He ultimately died as a martyr on the battlefield, fully engaged in combat,” the resistance movement said.

Hamas said the martyrdom of Sinwar, along with other fallen leaders, will strengthen the movement, its fighters, and the resistance, deepening their resolve and renewing their commitment and loyalty to the sacrifices of those who came before.

“The martyrdom of leader Yahya al-Sinwar, and all the leaders and icons who preceded him on the path of struggle for liberation and return, will only strengthen the Movement, our people, and our resistance. It will deepen their resolve, reinforce their commitment to the same path, and renew their loyalty to the blood and sacrifices of those who came before them,” the statement further read.

Hamas said the spirit of the Al-Aqsa Storm will continue to burn, undimmed by sacrifices or the enemy’s power, and vowed to honor the martyrs’ covenant, keep the banner flying, and continue the struggle until full liberation and a sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem al-Quds as its capital.

“The embers of the Al-Aqsa Storm will remain burning and pulsing with the spirit of adherence to rights, constants, and national unity. Its flames will not fade in the souls of our great people, no matter how great the sacrifices, and no matter how great the enemy's power and criminality. We are committed to the covenant of the martyred leaders, and the banner will not fall. It will remain flying high, and all our people will inherit its carrying and defense, until comprehensive liberation and the establishment of a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Quds as its capital,” the resistance movement stressed.