Lebanon deal shatters Netanyahu's illusions of reshaping Middle East, Hamas says

Hamas released a statement praising Hezbollah for supporting Gaza and welcoming the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, which it said represented a significant blow to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ambitions to "reshape" the Middle East. 

"Hamas greatly values the steadfastness and sacrifices of the Lebanese people, who have shown unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people in the face of the Zionist occupation and its brutal aggression," the statement read.

The Palestinian movement emphasised the sacrifices made by Hezbollah and its leadership during the war, with special mention of its late Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.

"This agreement would not have been possible without the resilience of the resistance and the strong support of the people behind it," Hamas said. 

"The enemy's acceptance of an agreement with Lebanon without meeting its conditions marks an important step in shattering Netanyahu's illusions of reshaping the Middle East."

Hamas reiterated its commitment to any efforts that would lead to a ceasefire in Gaza, stressing that any agreement should include its conditions of bringing an end to the war, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the return of displaced Palestinians and the exchange of prisoners.

"We are resolute in our stance and will not back down from our national rights. Our resistance remains steadfast until the occupation is defeated," Hamas said.