Hamas leader: We have Israeli commanders in custody

Hamas’s political representative, Saleh al-Arouri, told Al Jazeera Arabic in a phone call that the group has Israeli commanders held in custody. 

He also reiterated that "they are ready for all scenarios" in the face of any possible attacks from Israel.

"We trust that the resistance will free all of Palestinian land and there will be solidarity in Palestine and around the world, defending Al-Aqsa," he added.

"This is the time for taking part in resistance. Last year we lost over 200 martyrs. I call on all Palestinians and young people to claim victory over Israel.

"We entered this fight knowing there will be a reaction. We did not enter thinking it will be over in a few hours."

Arouri said that they anticipated a reaction from Israel, and knew from the start "that this would not be over in a few hours".

Arouri also condemned Israeli settlers' recent incursions into the highly revered Al-Aqsa Mosque in recent weeks.