Mishaal: Uprising will continue until rights, lands are restored

The Jerusalem Intifada will continue until Palestinians restore their rights and lands, political bureau head of Hamas, Khaled Mishaal, told masses in South Africa Tuesday afternoon.

Addressing pro-Palestine rally in South Africa, Mishaal compared the Palestinian cause to the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.

“South Africa, you have achieved your freedom, the people of Palestine are aspiring to attain their freedom,” he said.

“The uprising shall continue until the freedom is achieved and the land is for Palestine and its people,” Mishaal told the audience.

“Do not expect the Palestinians to stop the uprising, do not expect that they would stop the resistance,” he said.

Hamas leader Khaled Mishaal popped in South Africa on a three-day visit aimed at mobilizing support for the Palestinian cause.

President Jacob Zuma signed a letter of intent with Mishaal, expressing support for Palestinians amid growing Israeli terrorism across the occupied Palestinian territories.

“It is state-sponsored crime on the part of Israel against the Palestinian people,” said Marius Fransman, a provincial ANC chairman, drawing cheers from the crowd.

“People close their eyes, but we are taking a stand. We have to reaffirm the message of the unity of the oppressed masses.”

Hamas supporters lined the streets near the venue, waving the organization’s white-and-green flag.