Istanbul – A senior Hamas official has voiced the readiness of the Islamic militant group to consider a truce lasting five years or more with Israel. This significant shift in stance would see Hamas transform into a political party and disarm if an independent Palestinian state is established along pre-1967 borders. The comments made by Khalil al-Hayya come amidst a deadlock in months-long cease-fire negotiations.
Al-Hayya, who has been involved in cease-fire talks and discussions on prisoner exchanges, mentioned that Hamas is open to joining the Palestine Liberation Organization to form a united government across Gaza and the West Bank. The group would be willing to accept a fully sovereign Palestinian state within the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with the return of Palestinian refugees in accordance with international resolutions, along Israel’s pre-1967 borders.
The potential dissolution of Hamas’ military wing would mark a significant transition if the conditions for a Palestinian state are met. However, it remains uncertain whether Israel, who has adamantly opposed a Palestinian state on territories captured in the 1967 war, would entertain such propositions.
Regarding the ongoing conflict, Hamas claims that despite Israeli operations, a significant portion of their capabilities remain intact. Al-Hayya underscores the importance of seeking consensus and reaching a permanent cease-fire to end the conflict that has plagued the region for months.
Israel’s position, however, remains firm in its objective to defeat Hamas definitively. The stalemate in negotiations continues, with both sides accusing each other of unwillingness to compromise. The international community, which largely supports a two-state solution, faces challenges in brokering a lasting peace between the conflicting parties.
As the conflict persists, the situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire, with a significant portion of the population displaced and infrastructure severely impacted. The complexities of the conflict call for a delicate balance between security concerns and humanitarian considerations in the pursuit of sustainable peace in the region.
In light of these developments, the future remains uncertain, with potential shifts in political dynamics and external influences shaping the trajectory of the conflict. The resumption of negotiations and a renewed commitment to finding common ground may hold the key to ending the cycle of violence and fostering long-term stability in the region.