Hossam Badran, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, stated that Egypt’s role in the ceasefire negotiations was pivotal from day one, emphasizing that Cairo’s firm stance against the displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip “is a historic position greatly appreciated by the Palestinian people.”

Badran explained in a Zoom interview with journalist Lamis Elhadidy on the program “Al-Soura” on Al-Nahar TV on Saturday evening that Egypt did not delay in fulfilling its Arab and humanitarian role, both in negotiations and relief efforts, affirming that Hamas extends “deep thanks to the brothers in Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey” for their efforts in reaching the prisoner exchange and ceasefire agreement.

He pointed out that the exchange operation scheduled for Monday will proceed according to the agreed terms, noting that technical committees, in coordination with mediators led by the Egyptian side, are following up on the implementation details. The operation includes releasing Israeli soldiers in exchange for Palestinian prisoners with long and life sentences.

He added that the occupation refused to release many senior Hamas leaders and national symbols, including some who have spent over twenty years in captivity, noting that the list of alternatives is still under technical adjustment before final implementation.

Regarding the return of the bodies of the deceased, Badran said the widespread destruction in Gaza hinders access to all bodies simultaneously, affirming that Hamas “treats all Palestinian martyrs, including leaders, women, and children, with equal respect and loyalty.”

Regarding the resistance weapons file, Badran said this is a “purely Palestinian matter” to be discussed internally among factions, adding that the weapons in Gaza are not offensive tools but means of self-defense against the occupation.

He confirmed that those trying to portray resistance weapons as an obstacle to stability are deceiving public opinion, clarifying that the real reason for the lack of stability is “the continued occupation and its refusal to recognize the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.”

Badran affirmed that Hamas “insists on its natural right to resist the occupation by all legitimate means,” adding that regional stability will only be achieved by ending the occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with full sovereignty.