In a Gaza address aired by Hamas's Al-Aqsa TV on August 17, Sami Abu Zuhri, one of the organization's spokesmen, said that it was time for Hamas to declare that the goal of the war "is not the opening of a border crossing here or there," but the liberation of Jerusalem.

Sami Abu Zuhri: The time has come for us to say that our true war is not aimed at opening the border crossings. Our true war is aimed at the liberation of Jerusalem, Allah willing.

Khaybar, Khaybar oh Jews – Khaybar Khaybar, oh Jews –

The army of Muhammad has begun its return.

Resistance, resistance – we are all with the resistance.

Resistance, resistance – we are all with the resistance.

The war will continue. However, it is time for us to say that not only the blockade is rejected by our people. Our people refuses to accept the continued defiling of our land by the occupier. Therefore, as of today, the resistance is preparing not for the opening of a border crossing here or there, but rather for the liberation of our Palestinian land. This is the truth that Netanyahu should understand. We have become more resolute to wage the war of liberation, in order to put an end to the settlements and the Judaization, and in order to liberate our land and holy places – We have become more resolute to do so following the great victory of the resistance in this heroic war.