US Accuses Hamas of Blocking Cease-fire Efforts in Gaza
The United States on Monday strongly criticized Hamas for obstructing progress towards a temporary cease-fire in Gaza, despite Israel presenting a “reasonable” proposal in the ongoing hostage negotiations. According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, there is a substantial offer on the table, one that aligns with many of Hamas’ stated objectives, yet the group has not accepted it.
“This deal, which Hamas has rejected, would allow for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza lasting at least six weeks, benefiting the Palestinian people whom Hamas claims to represent,” Miller stated during a briefing. He emphasized the urgency for Hamas to accept this proposal and called for transparency from the group in explaining their refusal to both the world and the Palestinian community.
The latest developments follow after Hamas dismissed last week’s Cairo proposal for a hostage-truce agreement and subsequently presented a counter-offer to the US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators. The details of both the Cairo proposal and Hamas’ counter-response remain undisclosed amid varying and sometimes conflicting reports.
A senior Israeli official also weighed in, noting that Hamas’ counter-offer rejects every clause of the Cairo proposal, demanding conditions such as a permanent cease-fire, a complete withdrawal of IDF forces from Gaza, and an unrestricted return of Palestinians to the northern part of the enclave—terms that Israel deems unacceptable.
Further complicating the situation, Hamas has adjusted its demands, now seeking a significantly higher number of Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for any hostages released. The group’s steadfast stance has led to critical remarks from Israeli officials, accusing Hamas’ leader, Yahya Sinwar, of lacking interest in a humanitarian deal and exploiting regional tensions for broader strategic gains.
