Hamas Rejects Cease-fire Offer as Gaza Conflict Enters 7th Month
Hamas formally rejected an Israeli cease-fire proposal, detailing its response through mediators in Egypt and Qatar after more than six months of intense conflict in Gaza. The rejection came with a firm reiteration of Hamas’ conditions for a cease-fire, which includes a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, the return of displaced residents, increased aid, and the start of reconstruction efforts.
In contrast, Israel’s primary aim remains the secure return of hostages taken by Hamas during its October 7 attack, which initiated the conflict. Israel also insists on continuing its military operations until Hamas’ military capabilities are entirely dismantled, despite ongoing international calls for a ceasefire.
The deadlock continues as Hamas expressed readiness to engage in a prisoner-hostage swap, proposing the release of 133 hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. This proposal has not elicited an official response from Israeli authorities.
The situation is further complicated by recent Israeli military actions in Gaza, including an attack that killed several family members of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh. This incident has heightened concerns about the potential impact on negotiations for the hostages’ release.
The Hamas statement also accused Israel of stalling and not genuinely engaging with the group’s demands. This accusation comes amid broader regional tensions, highlighted by a recent Iranian missile and drone attack on Israel, which Iran claims was a defensive measure.
Israel, supported by mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, remains committed to achieving its war objectives and securing the safe return of all hostages, as reiterated in a recent statement by the Mossad.
