The spokesperson for the Israeli army commended Bassil for his assertive position regarding a statement from Hamas

Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesman for the Israeli army, praised Jebran Bassil, the head of the Free Patriotic Movement, for his disapproval of a Hamas announcement. This announcement involved the establishment of a new division in Lebanon named al-Aqsa Flood Vanguards, which encouraged Palestinian youths to join.

Adraee, in his statement on the X platform, questioned the legitimacy of what is referred to as ‘national resistance,’ linking Hamas’ actions to this concept. He suggested that believing in such a resistance under these circumstances is akin to self-deception. Adraee also equated Hezbollah and Hamas, stating that the activities in the South are evidence of their similar nature.

Bassil firmly rejected the statement from Hamas, emphasizing that any armed activities originating from Lebanese territory compromise national sovereignty. He acknowledged Lebanon’s right to self-defense against Israel through its ‘national resistance,’ but argued that the establishment of a so-called ‘Hamas Land’ in the South undermines Lebanon’s position.

In response to the controversy, Hamas clarified that their statement had been misinterpreted, asserting that the new division is intended as a popular, non-military organization. This clarification came after the announcement caused widespread indignation in Lebanon.