Middle East: Hamas calls upon Muslims to participate in “holy war” on 13 October

Hamas is calling for a “holy war” tomorrow, calling Friday, October 13, 2023, a “World Jihad Day”, according to a statement cited by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI).

The Palestinian Sunni organization “christened” tomorrow as “the Friday of the Al-Aqsa Flood”, referring to the name of the surprise attack it launched in Gaza last Saturday, leading to the death of more than 1,300 Israelis, while the number of wounded stands at 3,000 and the number of hostages held captive by the terrorists is estimated at 130.

According to the Middle East Media Research Institute, Hamas’ statement reads, “We declare that tomorrow, Friday, October 13, will be a day of general mobilization in the Arab and Islamic world and among the free people of the world. It is a day to rally support, offer aid, and participate actively. It is a day to expose the crimes of the occupation and foil all its aggressive schemes. It is a day to demonstrate our love for Palestine, Jerusalem, and the Al-Aqsa.”

“It is a day for sacrifice, heroism and dedication and to earn the honor of defending the first Qibla (meaning compass in Arabic) of the Muslims, the third holiest mosque… We call upon the free people of the world to mobilize in solidarity with the Palestinian people and in support of their just cause and legitimate rights to freedom, independence, and self-determination.”

Hamas also called on Palestinians in the West Bank (known to Israelis as Jews and Samaritans) to rise up against Israeli soldiers and called on Arab citizens of Israel to rise up against the Netanyahu government.

Hamas’ threats are made on the occasion of tomorrow’s Day of Prayer for Muslims, as every Friday. This is one of the highest Islamic rituals with Muslims listening to the Imam’s sermon and then attending the Friday prayer.