Sunday, 4 January 2009
Bethlehem – Ma’an – Hamas’ military wing the Al-Qassam Brigades refused to confirm or deny a story the group’s Al-Aqsa TV aired claiming the group captured two Israeli soldiers in the Gaza Strip during clashes on Sunday.
Speaking to the Qatar-based Al-Jazeera TV, Al-Qassam spokesperson Abu Ubayda warned Israeli soldiers that more surprises were awaiting them in the Gaza Strip.
He described Israel’s ground invasion in Gaza as “folly” affirming that fierce clashes erupted with Israeli soldiers and military factions in all directions. He also pointed out that resistance fighters detonated an underground explosive device killing and injuring Israeli soldiers.
“In order to cover for their dilemma, Israeli forces are firing from the air as well as artillery shells at open areas,” he added.
Abu Ubayda went on to say that in case Israeli aggression continued, Palestinian resistance would capture Israeli soldiers. “Shalit might have several companions,” he said.
Abu Ubayda also told Al-Jazira that resistance technicians were able to intercept Israeli military radio broadcasts and heard military personnel confirm that at least five were dead and 20 injured.
“The enemy has advanced a few hundred meters in open areas,” so far, Abu Ubayda explained, “We will destroy their tanks in the streets of the Gaza Strip,” he added.
Abu Ubauda refused to comment on the number of casualties from the Brigades, but guaranteed that there would be more Israeli dead than fighters.
He confirmed that the Brigades were coordinating with other factions and leaders had congregated in a joint operation room. He assured the reporter that the Al-Qassam Brigades had been preparing for this eventuality for years, and reminded listeners about the 2004 invasion that lasted 17 days and did not stop Palestinian rocket attacks.
