Hamas marks 22nd birthday with Gaza mass rally

Tens of thousands of Hamas supporters have thronged downtown Gaza City to mark the 22nd anniversary of the group's founding. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh says the militant group will work to liberate all Palestinian lands from Israel.

Speaking to tens of thousands of supporters, Ismail Haniyeh said a liberated Palestine is the goal of Hamas. He added that resistance is the group's way.

Ismail Haniyen, Hamas leader, said, "Hamas looks toward the whole of Palestine. The liberation of the Gaza Strip is just a step to liberating all of Palestine."

Haniyeh also says his organization will never recognize the state of Israel. He warns that Israel's threats of a second war on Gaza would never break the determination and strength of Hamas to continue resisting Israeli occupation.

Senior Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh speaks during a rally in Gaza  City December 14, 2009, marking the 22nd anniversary of the Hamas'  foundation. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa