Hamas not satisfied with progress

A year ago on Saturday Hamas wrested control of Gaza Strip after days of bitter fighting. On the day to mark the occupation, Hamas leader in Gaza urged Palestinians to be patient.

Ismail Haneya, Hamas leader in Gaza Strip, said, "We tell our Palestinian people that the goals of the siege were not achieved. This conspiracy has failed upon this resistance and upon the realization that the siege will collapse and the beginning of this collapse has started and is becoming apparent. We are asking our people for more patience and strength, and patience will lead to victory."

A year ago, Hamas took control of the coastal Strip after bitter fighting with the rival Fatah movement, led by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Abbas recently called for national dialogue with Hamas to end the political division between Gaza and the West Bank. Over the past year, Abbas rejected talks with Hamas unless the group gives up its control of Gaza.