Asger Risom
Militant group urges followers to take up weapons in protest of Trump-backed Israeli proposal
A senior Hamas official has called on supporters worldwide to rise up against a controversial plan backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump to forcibly remove Gaza’s population.
In a statement released Monday, Hamas spokesperson Sami Abou Zouhri urged “anyone capable of using a weapon, anywhere in the world, to take action.”
“Don’t leave unused a single explosive, bullet, knife, or stone. Let everyone break their silence,” he said, as reported by Digi24, citing AFP.
The call comes amid heightened tensions following reports that Israel is preparing to implement a U.S.-endorsed initiative that would expel Gaza’s 2.4 million residents and deny them the right to return.
Though Trump has since downplayed his earlier remarks, saying he “won’t impose” the plan, Hamas continues to treat it as an imminent threat.
Hamas condemns relocation and occupation plans
Netanyahu said over the weekend that Israel is open to allowing Hamas leaders to leave Gaza—if the group disarms entirely. He added that post-war, Israel would maintain security control over Gaza and work to implement the Trump plan.
Zouhri’s statement framed the proposal as a “diabolical” combination of “massacres and starvation,” and called for global armed resistance in response.
Trump’s proposal to remove Gaza residents surfaced shortly after his return to the White House in January 2025. Despite widespread international condemnation, elements of the plan appear to be moving forward in Israel.
International and regional concern mounting
The threat of renewed violence and global calls to arms from Hamas have drawn concern from governments and security agencies. Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, Israel, and several other countries.
The group’s call for violent action could have far-reaching implications, particularly as regional tensions remain high and global diplomatic efforts to end the Gaza conflict have largely stalled.