In a recent attempt to reshape public perception, Hamas has released a 16-page document titled “Our Narrative: Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” aiming to justify the events of October 7 and to recast the group in the light of a “national liberation” movement. This document comes in the wake of a massacre that has drawn widespread condemnation and has brought into sharp focus the terror group's actions and ideologies.
A Distorted Retelling of History and Conflict
The document embarks on a revisionist journey through history, starting with the Arab-Israeli conflict's origins. It underscores the Balfour Declaration and the British Mandate era, portraying the formation of Israel as an act of colonization by “Zionist gangs,” while painting Palestinians as victims denied the right to self-determination. This narrative blatantly ignores the complex historical context and the multiple efforts made towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
🇵🇸OFFICIAL HAMAS "OUR NARRATIVE": PART 5 (FINAL)
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) January 21, 2024
What is needed?
"Occupation is occupation no matter how it describes or names itself, and remains a tool to break the will of the peoples and to keep oppressing them. On the other side, the experiences of the peoples\nations… https://t.co/jnZnUlnccP pic.twitter.com/Gz7UlHRAua
October 7: A Day of Terror, Rebranded as Resistance
Hamas's account of the October 7 events is a striking exercise in obfuscation and denial. The document vehemently denies any atrocities committed by Hamas against civilians, framing the day's horrific violence as a legitimate operation targeting Israeli military sites. This claim starkly contrasts with the ground realities of that day, where bloody raids on Israeli towns and the taking of approximately 240 hostages paint a picture of unbridled terror, rather than a structured military operation.
Manipulating Public Opinion: Claims of Moral High Ground
In an audacious claim of moral superiority, Hamas asserts that the Al-Qassam Brigades conducted their operations with a commitment to avoiding civilian harm, contradicting numerous reports and evidences of indiscriminate violence and brutality. The document goes as far as to invoke the "lie of the 40 beheaded babies"—a fabrication that not only was never reported by Israeli media but also serves to divert attention from the group's own heinous acts.
A fascinating official 18-page Hamas document, which explains to the Palestinian people why it launched the October 7th attack. While not apologetic, it is defensive. Facing Pal' criticism, Hamas feels compelled to explain why it caused this calamity.
— Ori Nir | اوري نير | אוֹרי ניר (@OriNir_APN) January 22, 2024
https://t.co/pimMq8TFmG
Blaming Israel for Civilian Casualties: A Tactic of Deflection
Hamas's narrative takes a sinister turn as it blames Israeli defense actions for the deaths of civilians, including those at the Nova music festival. This claim is particularly insidious, given the overwhelming evidence pointing to Hamas's responsibility for these deaths. The document's assertion that all Israelis, by virtue of compulsory military service, are legitimate targets, further unmasks the group's distorted view of civilian life and international norms of warfare.
Calls for International Investigation: A Bid for Legitimacy
The document's call for an independent investigation by the International Criminal Court appears to be a strategic move to gain international sympathy and validation. By framing the October 7 massacre as part of a broader struggle against colonialism, Hamas seeks to redirect focus from its own violent actions to a narrative more palatable to its supporters and some international observers.
Dear #October7 Deniers & Contextualizers -
— Brad Pomerance (@bradpomerance) January 18, 2024
As #Israel stands accused of genocide (a charge which is entirely indefensible), can you please explain to us under what legal theory is #Hamas cutting off the head of a civilian in compliance with international law? https://t.co/pVKCXPEx6x
Rebranding Effort: From Terrorist Group to Liberation Movement
In a clear attempt to rebrand itself, the document emphasizes Hamas's role as a “national liberation and resistance movement,” a claim starkly at odds with its designation as a terrorist organization by multiple countries. This section of the document appears to be a calculated effort to gain legitimacy and support on the global stage, despite the group's long history of violence and extremism.
Conclusion: A Propaganda Effort Masking a Violent Reality
Hamas's latest propaganda document is a brazen attempt to rewrite history and recast its violent actions as a justified struggle for liberation. This narrative not only distorts the facts of the October 7 massacre but also seeks to legitimize the group's ongoing campaign of terror. It is crucial to view this document through the lens of reality and recognize it for what it is: a calculated effort to mask the true nature of Hamas's actions and ideology.
