In response to a ceasefire proposal from the United States, Hamas has stated its willingness to release 10 living Israeli hostages and the bodies of 18 deceased hostages in exchange for several Palestinian prisoners. However, they have called for amendments to the current plan, reiterating their demand for a permanent ceasefire, Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza, and assurances for continuous humanitarian aid—all absent in the current proposal.
The response from Hamas did not definitively accept or reject the US terms, which Israel has reportedly agreed to. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff labeled Hamas’s response as “totally unacceptable” and counterproductive, emphasizing the need for them to adhere to a framework that could lead to renewed talks in the upcoming week.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office noted that while Israel is ready to discuss the updated proposal, Hamas remains steadfast in its refusal to accept it. The situation is exacerbated by the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where 2.2 million residents are suffering immensely under ongoing conflict.
Despite the pressure, Hamas’s position remains precarious as it cannot entirely dismiss the US offer, especially with Israel poised to intensify its military operations. Previously, Hamas has rejected similar offers, insisting on a comprehensive peace arrangement. As violence escalates—with reports of significant casualties from recent Israeli airstrikes—the path to a resolution seems fraught with complications.
Source: www.bbc.com
