[editor’s summary]
Hamas has formally rejected Israel’s latest ceasefire proposal. The offer, which included a 45-day ceasefire in exchange for ten hostages, was deemed by Hamas as a ploy for Israeli political agendas. According to Hamas’ chief negotiator, Khalil al-Hayya, they are open to negotiations leading to the release of all hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and to end the war. The group emphasizes that they will not accept partial deals that support Israel’s ongoing conflict goals. Fifty-nine hostages remain in captivity, with 24 believed to be alive. Israeli right-wing Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has advocated for a harsh response against Hamas.
Earlier indications from Hamas to the BBC confirmed the group’s refusal of the plan, insisting that such partial agreements serve only to prolong Israel’s “war of extermination and starvation”. Despite this, Hamas is willing to negotiate for a hostage-for-prisoner exchange. However, significant disagreements remain regarding a comprehensive deal that could end the conflict. As the war continues, the death toll mounts, with the Israeli strikes recently killing at least 37 people, including displaced civilians in al-Mawasi. Israel claims its strikes target “terror targets” and denies any aid shortfall, despite major aid groups reporting the collapse of humanitarian aid systems in Gaza.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8gzm0p1y8o
