Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected Hamas’s proposed ceasefire terms, asserting that “total victory” in Gaza is achievable within months.
This rejection comes in response to Hamas laying out a series of demands following an Israel-backed ceasefire proposal.
Netanyahu rejects Hamas’s proposal
Netanyahu labelled Hamas’s terms as “bizarre” and stated that negotiations with the group were not progressing. He was speaking at a news conference when he strongly emphasized that the only viable solution is a “complete and final victory,”. He further expressed concern that if Hamas persists in Gaza, it will inevitably lead to further violence and bloodshed.
Israel diplomacy in question
The world leaders have been working towards an amicable resolution to the tragic and complicated conflict. The current turn of events hasn’t done much to ease the tension.
According to BBC Israeli officials perceived Hamas’s attempt to dictate terms for ending the conflict as wholly unacceptable. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri dismissed Netanyahu’s remarks as “political bravado,” suggesting that the Israeli leader intends to prolong the conflict.
Egypt and Qatar host attempts at mediation
Despite Netanyahu’s rejection, talks are ongoing in an attempt to reach a resolution. Egypt and Qatar have taken up the responsibility of hosting negotiations which are scheduled to continue in Cairo. Egypt has urged all parties to demonstrate flexibility in order to achieve a peaceful agreement.
What was Hamas’s proposal for Israel?
Hamas proposed a three-phase ceasefire plan. One that included the exchange of hostages, withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid deliveries. However, Netanyahu’s outright dismissal indicates a significant gap between the parties’ positions.
The immediate challenge now is whether the negotiations can be salvaged to facilitate the exchange of hostages and prisoners, as well as to provide much-needed humanitarian relief to the Gaza Strip. As the conflict persists, the region remains on edge, awaiting developments in the pursuit of a lasting ceasefire agreement.