Israel has dismissed a statement from Hamas indicating the group’s willingness to engage in a “comprehensive deal” aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and securing the release of all hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office characterized the statement as lacking new information and reiterated that hostilities would cease only when all 48 hostages—20 of whom are believed to be alive—are freed, Hamas is disarmed, Gaza is demilitarized, and a civilian administration is instated.
Hamas, in its statement, called for a deal that would involve the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, an Israeli military withdrawal, the reopening of border crossings, and the initiation of reconstruction efforts. The group also expressed willingness to support an administration governed by independent technocrats in a post-war Gaza.
This announcement followed remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged Hamas to return all hostages for an expedited resolution to the situation. Last month, Hamas reported acceptance of a plan from mediators Qatar and Egypt, proposing a temporary truce in exchange for the release of some hostages. Israel has not yet formally responded to this proposition, which Egypt has interpreted as a reluctance from Israel to engage in de-escalation.
Israel’s military efforts have intensified near Gaza City, which it considers a stronghold for Hamas. As a result of recent military actions, at least 23 Palestinians were reported killed in Israeli strikes in the city. The United Nations has warned that further escalation could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where conditions are already dire. It has documented significant displacement, with over 82,000 people newly affected since mid-August, many unable or unwilling to relocate due to various challenges.
The ongoing conflict began on October 7, 2023, following an attack by Hamas that resulted in significant casualties and hostage situations in Israel. Since that time, casualties in Gaza have reportedly exceeded 64,000, with malnutrition and starvation contributing to additional deaths.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz087gpd52ko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss