A Hamas official has stated that the group would reject any deal that does not lead to a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The official, Ghazi Hamad, emphasized that the current proposal being discussed is not acceptable to Hamas.
Hamad referred to a document from July 2 as the foundation accepted by the mediators and reiterated Hamas' stance on the importance of a permanent ceasefire and full withdrawal. He stated, 'What is currently offered is partial and insufficient and does not meet Hamas' demands.'
Recent discussions between the United States and Israel have reportedly included a proposal for a monthlong ceasefire in exchange for the release of some hostages. The exact number of hostages to be released remains uncertain, according to sources familiar with the matter. This proposed ceasefire would be shorter than the previously discussed six-week first phase that did not materialize.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been reluctant to provide concrete assurances of a pathway to a larger deal to end the ongoing conflict, as per a source familiar with the talks.
The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue between the involved parties, with Hamas standing firm on its demands for a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
