Hamas has rejected Israel’s latest ceasefire proposal, dealing a blow to international efforts aimed at ending months-long conflict in Gaza. Hamas described its terms as unacceptable and accused Israel of failing to meet core Palestinian demands.
This proposed ceasefire, brokered with the support of the US, Egypt, and Qatar, sought to secure a temporary cessation in hostilities, release of hostages held by Hamas, and facilitate gradual entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to Israeli officials, their offer represented an “evenhanded and reasonable approach toward de-escalation.
Hamas leadership rejected this plan as not guaranteeing complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, nor providing firm commitment to permanent ceasefire or reconstruction in Gaza. A senior Hamas official claimed this proposal provided cover for continued Israeli attacks against their people. “This proposal is simply designed as a trap,” one such official remarked during a televised address by Hamas leadership.
Gaza continues to face grave humanitarian conditions. According to the UN, over 30,000 people have been killed since October’s conflict began and thousands more injured or displaced; aid organizations have warned that famine may soon sweep over Gaza while vital infrastructure like hospitals and water supplies is close to collapse.
The United States voiced its displeasure with Hamas’ decision, and called upon all parties to return to negotiations. According to Secretary of State Antony Blinken: “The offer on the table presented an opportunity to ease suffering and advance peace; its failure would only lead to more violence and loss of life.”
Israel reiterated its position that operations will continue in Gaza until all hostages have been returned and Hamas’ military capabilities dismantled, calling Hamas’ refusal as evidence that they do not desire peace. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office called Hamas’ decision as further proof they do not wish for reconciliation with Israel.
As diplomatic channels remain congested and no breakthrough in sight, analysts from around the region worry that conflict could escalate further. Middle East expert Dr. Layla Kassem warned of this “dangerously deep impasse”, warning against both sides’ locking into an endless cycle of retaliation without reaching an accommodation between themselves.
As international mediators search for new strategies to create an immediate ceasefire agreement, hopes of an imminent ceasefire seem increasingly remote, leaving civilians on both sides to suffer the brunt of ongoing warfare.
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