Hamas has responded to a US ceasefire proposal for the conflict in Gaza by stating that it opens a “wide pathway” to reach an agreement. However, neither Hamas nor Israel publicly committed to a deal. The terrorist group submitted its formal response to the proposal made by US President Joe Biden, leading to mixed reactions from Israel and Hamas. Egypt and Qatar, who received Hamas’ response, did not disclose the details of the response. The ongoing war between Hamas and Israel began after a Hamas attack on October 7th, which resulted in Israeli military retaliation.
A member of Hamas’ political bureau described the group’s response as “responsible, serious and positive.” The response reiterated long-standing demands, including the permanent cessation of hostilities in Gaza, withdrawal of Israeli forces, reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave, and the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel. Hamas expressed confidence that there were no major gaps in the negotiations and stated that the ball is now in Israel’s court. President Biden’s proposal focuses on a ceasefire and phased release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, ultimately aiming for a permanent end to the conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Despite the US claiming that Israel accepted its proposal, Israeli officials have not publicly confirmed this. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel will not cease attacks in Gaza until Hamas is eliminated. An Israeli official stated that Hamas rejected the proposed hostage release and altered the main parameters of the proposal. A non-Israeli official revealed that Hamas suggested a new timeline for a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. The UN Security Council supported the US resolution endorsing Biden’s proposal.
Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri expressed that the group accepted the UN Security Council’s resolution and was prepared to negotiate the details of a ceasefire. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was visiting Tel Aviv to meet with Israeli officials, described Hamas’ response as a “hopeful sign” but emphasized that the decisive factor lies in the word from Gaza and Hamas leadership. Blinken highlighted the importance of receiving confirmation directly from Hamas leadership in Gaza. The situation remains fluid, with both sides navigating the delicate negotiations and striving for a resolution to end the conflict in Gaza.
