Islamic Jihad rejects Egyptian ceasefire initiative

Islamic Jihad rejects the Egyptian ceasefire initiative as it does not include lifting the siege on Gaza, the movement’s senior leader said.

Speaking at a press conference, Khalid Al-Batsh said, “We welcome the Egyptian efforts,” but insisted that any effort must be discussed with the resistance leaders.

He reiterated that lifting the siege must be the basis for any discussions of ceasefires.

“This battle is decisive and many strategic measures in dealing with the occupation must be built upon it,” he said.

The senior leader insisted that “any ceasefire with the occupation must be recognised by the international community, which must recognise our rights and the end of the siege on Gaza.”