Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Hamas has rejected Israel’s latest ceasefire offer, calling for an immediate negotiation to secure the release of all remaining hostages in exchange for an end to the conflict and the liberation of Palestinian prisoners. In a video statement, the chief negotiator for Hamas, Khalil al-Hayya, expressed the group’s unwillingness to accept partial agreements that align with the political agenda of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
With 59 hostages still held captive, Israel proposed a 45-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of 10 hostages. The rejection by Hamas was anticipated, as the group had previously voiced concerns that partial agreements would only serve as a façade for Israel’s goal of perpetuating the conflict at the cost of jeopardizing the lives of the remaining hostages.
Hamas is now signaling its readiness to engage in negotiations for a comprehensive deal, aiming to secure the release of all hostages in exchange for a specified number of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Despite the willingness to pursue a peaceful resolution, the divergent stances of the two parties suggest that a mutual agreement to end the war remains elusive.
Israel’s objective of dismantling Hamas contrasts with the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where civilians are bearing the brunt of the ongoing airstrikes with minimal access to aid. The latest wave of Israeli attacks resulted in the deaths of dozens of displaced Palestinians, including children, in al-Mawasi.
Israeli military actions have targeted numerous sites deemed as threats, with an emphasis on pressuring Hamas to release the remaining hostages. However, the severe strain on the humanitarian aid system in Gaza has raised concerns among major aid organizations, signaling a critical need for intervention to prevent a complete collapse.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted on October 7, 2023, following a deadly cross-border attack by Hamas that led to the seizure of hostages. The subsequent military campaign by Israel has exacted a heavy toll on the population, with casualties mounting on both sides as the cycle of violence persists.