Hamas Expected to Maintain Anti-Israel Stance

Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council called on the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas to maintain its leading role in countering the Israeli occupation. In a meeting with the deputy head of Hamas’ political bureau, Saleh al-Arouri, in Tehran on Saturday, Ali Shamkhani expressed hope that Hamas would maintain its “revolutionary attitude” and keep fighting against the Israeli regime’s occupation of Palestinian territories, Tasnim News Agency reported. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting the cause of Palestine, saying Tehran embraces those who pursue the goal of liberating Palestine. Condemning the US and Israeli attempts to foment tensions in the region, Shamkhani said any move to downplay the issue of Palestine as the Muslim world’s top priority or to support the idea of compromise with Israel will be an “unforgivable treason” against Muslims.

Arouri hailed Iran for its significant support for the Palestinian nation, saying the Hamas leaders are determined to promote cooperation with Iran.

Heading a delegation, Arouri has traveled to Iran to hold talks with senior Iranian officials on latest Palestinian developments, especially the recent reconciliation agreement between the Gaza-based Hamas and Fatah movement in the West Bank, as well as bilateral relations.