Hamas disclosed on Tuesday that the recent proposal presented by Israel, facilitated by Qatari and Egyptian mediators, failed to address any of the demands put forth by Palestinian factions. However, the group announced its intention to scrutinize the proposal, describing it as “intransigent,” and pledged to convey its response to the mediators.
Earlier on Monday, a spokesperson for Hamas said that the Israeli ceasefire proposition, discussed during talks in Cairo, had been rebuffed. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at an imminent invasion of Rafah, the last sanctuary for displaced Palestinians in Gaza.
Negotiations in Egypt, involving representatives from Israel and Hamas, alongside Qatari and Egyptian mediators, as well as CIA Director William Burns, underscored mounting pressure from the United States for a resolution. The primary objectives included securing the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza and providing aid to Palestinian civilians grappling with the aftermath of six months of conflict.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, a senior official from HAMAS emphasized the rejection of the latest Israeli proposals, citing a lack of progress in the negotiations. The stance remained unchanged, reflecting ongoing discord over critical issues such as the Israeli military offensive and the displacement of Palestinian civilians.
While Israel expressed eagerness to broker a prisoners-for-hostages deal, HAMAS insisted on comprehensive measures to halt the military offensive, withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza, and facilitate the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
Rafah, identified as the final refuge for displaced Palestinians and a strategic stronghold for HAMAS, emerged as a focal point of contention. Amid concerns of a humanitarian crisis, intensified by Israeli bombardments, international entities urged restraint to prevent further bloodshed.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated determination to achieve victory over HAMAS, emphasizing plans to enter Rafah and dismantle alleged terrorist factions. However, specific details regarding the timing of the operation remained undisclosed.
Of the individuals seized by HAMAS on October 7, a significant number remain in captivity. Negotiations continue to revolve around securing the release of hostages as part of a potential agreement.
As deliberations persist and tensions escalate, the quest for a viable ceasefire agreement remains paramount, with both sides grappling to reconcile conflicting objectives amidst ongoing hostilities.
