Hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza remain low as Hamas insists on war’s end for hostages’ release, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu dismisses the demand.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza appeared bleak on Sunday as negotiations continued in Cairo, with Hamas demanding an end to the war in exchange for freeing hostages, a condition flatly rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The deadlock has resulted in mutual blame between the parties involved.
During the second day of talks in Cairo, mediated by Egyptian and Qatari officials, Hamas negotiators reiterated that any ceasefire must include an end to the war, according to Palestinian officials. Despite not participating directly, Israeli officials were represented in these indirect discussions.
Netanyahu, reinforcing Israel’s stance since the conflict’s inception nearly seven months ago, reiterated Israel’s primary objective to disarm and dismantle Hamas, which he argues is crucial for Israel’s future security. He stated Israel’s willingness to pause the fighting to secure the release of over 130 hostages held by Hamas. However, he emphasized that Hamas’s demands, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and an end to the war while leaving Hamas in power, were unacceptable.
Shortly after Netanyahu’s statement, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh issued a response, expressing the group’s continued interest in a comprehensive ceasefire that would end Israeli “aggression” and facilitate an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
Haniyeh criticized Netanyahu for perpetuating the conflict and obstructing peace efforts through mediators. The conflict, which escalated after a surprise cross-border raid by Hamas on October 7, has led to significant casualties on both sides and a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Cairo talks occur against a backdrop of ongoing violence in Gaza, with Israeli airstrikes and tank fire reported overnight by local residents and health officials, causing additional casualties.
Meanwhile, mediation efforts by Egypt and Qatar aim to build on a brief ceasefire established in November, amidst global concern over the increasing death toll and the dire situation of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. CIA Director William Burns, involved in previous truce discussions, arrived in Cairo on Friday to support these efforts. A proposal under consideration involves a short-term truce and the phased release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
As the discussions continue, the pressure mounts from international and domestic fronts for a resolution, with thousands of Israelis protesting on Saturday, urging Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire that would bring home the remaining hostages.
