Attack response to long-ignored Israeli crimes, Hamas military spokesman says

The reason why Hamas launched the Saturday attack is due to Israel's crimes, long ignored by the world "despite the cries of the oppressed [Palestinian] people", a Hamas' Izzideen al-Qassam Brigades' spokesperson, has said.

In a recorded statement, Abu Ubaida said battles are still ongoing in many locations inside Israel 60 hours after the assault was launched, and that the group is still replacing forces in combat sites, sending reinforcements - with weapons, equipment, and fighters - and taking prisoners.

"We heard [Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant] calling us "human animals", perhaps [he] was referring to lions who stepped over their pig soldiers’ necks," he said.

Israel's allusion to launch a ground invasion is "laughable", he added, saying that nine-tenths of al-Qassam forces are on standby and are ready for a prolonged fight.

He also said the group has taken a large number of prisoners and will not negotiate over their fate while "under fire". 

"We affirm that we will not deliberate or negotiate on the issue of prisoners under fire, in light of aggression, or in light of battle. The issue of prisoners is a strategic file with its clear and known path and the prices that the occupation will pay."