It has been two years since the Al-Qassam Brigades launched “Al-Aqsa Flood” against the Israeli occupation, a decisive operation that drew international attention back to the Palestinian cause and challenged decades of global neglect.

In an interview with ILKHA on the anniversary of the operation, former Hamas MP Marwan Abu Ras discussed the reasons behind Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, its consequences, and its ongoing impact on global perceptions and regional dynamics.

“Operation Al-Aqsa Flood brought the Palestinian issue back to the center of the world’s attention,” Abu Ras said.

According to Abu Ras, prior to the operation, the Palestinian cause had largely been ignored internationally, regionally, and even within Arab and Islamic institutions. “Even the people had become accustomed to hearing about it only occasionally. The interest seen during the Intifadas and earlier resistance movements had faded. Operation Al-Aqsa Flood stirred stagnant waters and made the Palestinian cause a focus not just for Arabs and Muslims, but for the entire world. The world now sees Palestinians as a people who, from 1948 to 2023, have endured oppression, blockades, attacks on holy sites, violence against women and children, mass land seizures, and the deprivation of basic necessities in Gaza,” he explained.

“The operation reminded the world that our holy sites and rights are not forgotten,” he added.

Abu Ras emphasized that Operation Al-Aqsa Flood mobilized people globally. “The operation activated Arab populations and citizens in neighboring countries, even where such movements were restricted. From Jordan and Egypt to Morocco, Türkiye, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan, people responded. Revolutionary movements and protests emerged across the Arab world, extending to Africa, North Africa, and the Atlantic coast. Global awareness of the long-standing injustice galvanized not only ordinary citizens but also students, professionals, and businesses. Boycotts were imposed on companies supporting the occupation, and protests erupted in universities once students realized that scientific and technological contributions from these institutions were aiding Israel’s war machine. Drones killing civilians today, for example, are produced in part by American universities.”

The ripple effects of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood reached international institutions. Abu Ras pointed out that nearly unanimous support for the establishment of a Palestinian state was recorded in the UN General Assembly, while the UN Security Council voted 14-1 to demand an end to hostilities. The United States found itself isolated, aligned only with Israel, while the International Court of Justice declared Netanyahu and his associates war criminals.

“This global response is one of the greatest achievements of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. It shifted balances, mobilized people, and challenged the Israeli impunity,” he said.

Abu Ras also addressed the controversial Gaza plan proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasizing that it is not a peace agreement but a unilateral occupation initiative. “Trump’s document was presented to Arab and Muslim leaders, but it was altered when Netanyahu assumed control. Hamas has not officially accepted this document. Certain clauses, including disarmament and the absence of a withdrawal plan, are completely unacceptable. Our principles are non-negotiable, and any offer contrary to our core values will be rejected,” he stated.

Abu Ras concluded: “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood showed that Palestinians will never forget their rights, lands, or holy sites. The operation was not just a military response; it was a message to the world that the Palestinian cause remains alive in our hearts, and we will continue to defend it against all forms of occupation and injustice.” (ILKHA)