Hamas Rejects US Gaza Proposal, Demanding Permanent Ceasefire and Release of Hostages

2025-05-31
Hamas Rejects US Gaza Proposal, Demanding Permanent Ceasefire and Release of Hostages
BBC

Tensions escalate in the ongoing conflict as Hamas has firmly rejected the latest ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States. The rejection comes amidst intense diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting resolution to the crisis in Gaza.

In a statement released earlier today, Hamas reiterated its commitment to the release of 10 living hostages, a key demand in any potential agreement. However, the group has doubled down on its insistence on a permanent ceasefire as a prerequisite for the release of further hostages and an end to the fighting.

This stance was conveyed by a Hamas spokesperson who described the US proposal as “totally unacceptable,” highlighting significant disagreements on the terms of a potential deal. The US envoy, while acknowledging the rejection, has vowed to continue working towards a negotiated settlement, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza.

The US proposal, details of which remain largely confidential, is understood to have outlined a phased approach to a ceasefire, potentially involving temporary pauses in hostilities to facilitate the release of hostages and the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, Hamas appears to be holding out for a more comprehensive and permanent cessation of hostilities.

The deadlock raises serious concerns about the prospects of a near-term ceasefire and the potential for further escalation in the conflict. International mediators are continuing to shuttle between the parties, attempting to bridge the gap in their positions and find a path towards a negotiated solution.

Key sticking points in the negotiations remain the duration of the ceasefire, the terms of troop withdrawal, and guarantees for the long-term security of both Israelis and Palestinians. Hamas's demand for a permanent ceasefire is viewed by some as an attempt to solidify its control over Gaza and prevent Israel from resuming military operations in the future.

The release of the 10 living hostages remains a critical element of any potential agreement. The families of the hostages are anxiously awaiting news and urging both sides to prioritize their safe return. The international community has repeatedly called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with a severe humanitarian crisis unfolding. Aid agencies are struggling to provide essential supplies to the civilian population, and the healthcare system is on the brink of collapse. A ceasefire would be crucial to allowing aid to reach those in need and to preventing further loss of life.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that will bring an end to the violence and pave the way for a lasting peace in the region. The rejection of the US proposal underscores the complexity of the situation and the challenges that lie ahead in achieving a negotiated settlement.

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