In a dramatic turn of events, Abu Obaida, the spokesperson of Hamas’s Al-Qassam Brigades, delivered a scathing speech that has sent shockwaves across the Arab world. During his latest televised address, Abu Obaida did not hold back, openly criticising several Arab nations for their silence or indirect support of Israel, while expressing gratitude to the Houthis of Yemen for standing in solidarity with Palestine. The fiery speech has reignited debates about Arab unity, betrayal, and shifting alliances amidst the Israel-Gaza conflict, involving figures like Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump.
Why Did Hamas Curse Arab Countries?
Abu Obaida’s message was crystal clear: many Arab regimes have, in his words, "abandoned Palestine" in favour of political normalisation with Israel. His remarks come at a time when public anger is brewing across the Middle East due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He questioned how Arab governments could stay silent while innocent civilians continue to perish under bombardments from Netanyahu’s government.
Hamas’s frustration is not without basis. Several Arab countries, despite strong public support for Palestine, have opted for quiet diplomacy or muted statements. Some have even gone ahead with economic or strategic deals with Israel, further deepening the wounds in the Arab street.
Houthis Praised: An Unexpected Ally
In stark contrast to the condemnation of Arab states, Abu Obaida lauded the Houthis in Yemen for their visible support. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have launched missile and drone attacks on Israeli-linked ships and openly condemned the aggression in Gaza. According to Hamas, the Houthis are among the few who have taken “real action” rather than offering empty condolences.
Abu Obaida’s public thanks to the Houthis reflects a shifting dynamic in Middle Eastern alliances — where ideological sympathy is beginning to override traditional political lines. This new alignment raises alarm bells not just in Arab capitals but also in Washington and Tel Aviv.
Netanyahu in the Crosshairs
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains a central figure in this ongoing crisis. Hamas accused Netanyahu of war crimes and called for his international prosecution. Abu Obaida framed Netanyahu as the architect of destruction, blaming him for thousands of deaths and for “dragging the region into chaos.”
This latest outburst isn’t new — Hamas and Netanyahu have long been enemies — but the intensity and desperation in Abu Obaida’s tone suggests a growing sense of betrayal by the wider Arab world, not just their Israeli foes.
The Trump Factor: Fuel to the Fire
Abu Obaida also made indirect references to Donald Trump, whose Abraham Accords paved the way for several Arab states to normalise ties with Israel. From Hamas’s viewpoint, Trump’s deals served as a betrayal of the Palestinian cause, allowing Israel to consolidate power in the region with minimal resistance.
Although Trump is no longer in office, the legacy of his Middle East policy continues to ripple through the region. The speech hinted that any return of Trump to the global stage could worsen Palestinian isolation.
Arab Public vs Arab Governments
What makes this situation even more explosive is the contrast between Arab governments and their people. Across cities like Cairo, Amman, Rabat, and even Riyadh, mass protests have erupted in support of Palestine. Abu Obaida cleverly tapped into this sentiment, praising “the people of the Arab world” while condemning their rulers. This populist tone may help Hamas regain some sympathy after weeks of being cornered militarily and politically.
A Turning Point in Middle Eastern Politics?
Abu Obaida’s speech may well mark a turning point in Middle Eastern politics. By publicly denouncing Arab regimes while praising non-state actors like the Houthis, Hamas is sending a message: it no longer counts on traditional diplomacy but instead on regional upheaval and grassroots rebellion.
This could have wide-ranging implications, particularly for nations that have normalised ties with Israel or are in talks to do so. It may also drive deeper wedges within the Arab League and force public discourse about who truly represents Arab unity.
Conclusion: A War of Words and Loyalties
The speech by Abu Obaida is not just a political rant — it’s a declaration of disappointment, defiance, and desperation. By targeting Arab nations, praising the Houthis, and singling out Netanyahu and Trump, Hamas is repositioning itself in a shifting regional landscape.
Whether this approach will win them more support or further alienate them remains to be seen. But one thing is certain — the speech has reignited tensions not only between Palestine and Israel but within the Arab world itself.
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