Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal has reiterated that the movement will not recognise Israel, asserting that the assassination of the head of the group’s political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, “only strengthens our people”, Anadolu reports.

He made the remarks during the funeral ceremony for his bodyguard Wasim Abu Shaban at the Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque in Doha, Qatar.

“We will not compromise on principles and will not recognise Israel. Our people will maintain our national unity, continuing the path of jihad, resistance, and reclaiming our rights,” said Meshaal.

“Our enemies (Israel) do not learn the lesson; they have been killing our leaders for a hundred years, so what has happened?” he asked rhetorically. “Every time a leader rises, another comes; this only makes our people stronger.”