Hamas leader says Israel's election will bring no change for Palestinians

Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya dismissed the idea that Israeli elections could utilize "blood" from Palestinians. Speaking to Qatari station Al-Araby, al-Hayya stated that regardless of who wins, the Palestinian people have suffered under every Israeli administration. He emphasized the refusal to permit the suffering and losses of Palestinians to fuel Israeli political gains, prioritizing his people's objectives and rights.

The upcoming election on October 27 holds significant importance, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing a tight race to retain power. Netanyahu has pledged not to withdraw troops from Gaza and dismissed a US-led peace proposal, which Hamas agreed to, involving surrendering weapons. The October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants resulted in 1,221 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza.

Israel subsequently launched a retaliatory offensive, displacing the entire Gaza population, causing extensive damage, and leading to over 73,900 fatalities, as per the Gaza health ministry. The Palestinian Authority plans to hold legislative elections on November 28, though there are concerns about their occurrence. Hamas won the 2006 election, displacing Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah.

Abbas, 90, has ruled by decree since then, with the legislature barred from convening and Hamas controlling Gaza. Abbas is residing in the West Bank, where the Palestinian Authority holds limited control. Al-Hayya expressed readiness to collaborate with President Abbas to establish a national program and achieve genuine unity. Should elections be postponed, this could serve as a starting point to mend the Palestinian state.

Hamas is forming an alliance with Mohammed Dahlan, a former Fatah figure residing in Gaza who has liaised with the United States on its peace proposal. Al-Hayya noted that if elections are delayed, the alliance will stay active and open to all, aiming to form a united national front. However, Hamas's participation in the election is uncertain, as Abbas has demanded all candidates endorse the Palestine Liberation Organisation's platform, which has acknowledged Israel's right to exist since 1993 under the Oslo peace accords.

On the regional level, Hamas proposed mediating between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels, who have intensified attacks against the kingdom since July. Al-Hayya expressed hope for this proposal's acceptance, stating that Hamas supports these nations, considering them part of their base. Iran has backed both the Houthis and Hamas.