Khamenei Claims Hamas Victory Amid Ceasefire, Iran Supports Gaza Resistance

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, declared Thursday that Hamas emerged victorious in its war with Israel, following a ceasefire agreement announced on Wednesday. Khamenei shared his views on X/Twitter, stating that history would recognize the "steadfastness" of the Palestinian resistance that forced Israel to retreat. His post, written in both English and Hebrew, included the hashtag "#GazaIsVictorious," signaling Iran’s unwavering support for Hamas and the Palestinian cause.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) echoed Khamenei’s sentiments, calling the ceasefire a "great victory" for Palestinian resistance, according to a statement shared by the Tasnim news agency. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, with both Iran and Hamas celebrating what they view as a victory against Israel’s military operations.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas, backed by Iran, breached a ceasefire and launched an assault on Israel. The attack led to the deaths of over 1,200 people and the abduction of more than 250 hostages, some of whom were released through a November ceasefire agreement. However, around 100 hostages remain in captivity, and calls for a new deal for their release continue to grow louder.

Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdusalam also commended Gaza's resilience, claiming the ceasefire as a victory for the oppressed Palestinian people.

In related developments, Iranian Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif has accused Israel of "nuclear terrorism" over the 2021 attack on the Natanz uranium enrichment site, claiming Israel's interference led to severe damage to Iranian centrifuges. Zarif linked these incidents to the broader context of Iran’s strained relationships due to international sanctions.