Iran pledges continued support for Quds liberation in message to new Hamas chief

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Tuesday congratulated Khalil al-Hayya on his appointment as head of the political bureau of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas). In a message addressed to al-Hayya, Ghalibaf described the appointment as the acceptance of "a trust born of fire and blood," coming at a time when the soil of Palestine remains warm with the blood of resistance commanders, including Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar, both martyred in the fight against Zionist occupation.

Ghalibaf stated, "The martyrdom of these two indomitable heroes is not a blow to the body of the resistance, but rather the starting point of a new chapter of sacred rage and the crystallization of the Palestinian people's iron will against Zionism." He expressed confidence that al-Hayya, drawing on the political and jihadi legacy of Haniyeh and the unwavering resolve of Sinwar, would keep the flag of resistance flying higher than before in the face of the occupiers and would press forward along the path to victory with firm determination.

The Parliament Speaker added that the Islamic Republic of Iran stands alongside al-Hayya and all fighters in the field, committed to continuing "this glorious path" and, relying on divine assistance, to bringing about the liberation of holy Al-Quds, the foremost aspiration of the Muslim world. Ghalibaf concluded his message by praying that God would grant elevation of rank to the martyrs of the resistance, good health and steadfastness to al-Hayya, and dignity and prosperity to the steadfast people of Palestine.

According to Mehr News, the message underscores Iran's longstanding policy of supporting Palestinian resistance groups against Israel. The appointment of al-Hayya follows the martyrdom of his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an alleged Israeli strike in Tehran in July 2024. Yahya Sinwar, another senior Hamas leader, was also killed in combat earlier this year. Iran has consistently provided political, financial, and military support to Hamas and other Palestinian factions, viewing the liberation of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) as a core objective.