Ramallah, Doha – Hamas officially announced on Monday its new political program by accepting the idea of a Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 border, but rejected to recognize Israel, affirming that its conflict, which is political, not religious, lies with the Zionist project.

The new program was announced by head of the movement’s political bureau, Khaled Meshaal, at a press conference held on Monday night in Doha, with the participation of the entire Hamas leadership from Gaza via videoconference.

“Hamas advocates the liberation of all of Palestine but is ready to support the state on 1967 borders without recognizing Israel or ceding any rights,” Meshaal said.

He said “Hamas is vital and renewable in its political performance. The program is a natural manifestation to our advancement and renewal.”

Hamas agreed four years ago on the need to write this political program, which went through long stages and was changed several times, he added.

“The Movement wanted this document to be a guide and a reference to anyone who wants to know about Hamas and its policies,” Mashaal added.

The Hamas press conference was delayed for two hours on Monday. The Movement said the administration of the hotel from where Meshaal was supposed to announce the new platform decided to apologize at the last minute from hosting the event, prompting Hamas to find an alternative location.

But, Hamas politburo member Izzat al-Rishq spoke about a “war of halls” launched on the “chased platform.”

On Monday, Israel considered the new program as “an attempt to fool the world.”
By announcing it, Meshaal would have completed his role because he is leaving the Hamas leadership in the upcoming days, with Ismail Haniyeh expected to be announced as the new leader.