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Hamas Rejects Interim Truce Without Ceasefire Plan
Hamas has announced that it will not accept any temporary truce with Israel unless the agreement includes a clear roadmap toward a permanent ceasefire. The group’s armed wing made the statement in a televised broadcast, stating that short-term deals must be tied to long-term solutions if progress is to be made.
This declaration comes amid international efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to mediate a phased deal involving hostage releases and a limited withdrawal of Israeli forces.
Deal Stalled Over War-End Conditions
Under the current proposal, Hamas would release 10 live hostages and return the bodies of 18 others over a period of 60 days. In exchange, Israel is expected to release a number of Palestinian prisoners, allow more humanitarian aid, and partially withdraw its troops. However, Hamas insists that no arrangement will move forward unless it includes a commitment from Israel to end the war and lift the siege on Gaza.
A spokesperson stated, “There is no room for any agreement unless it leads directly to the cessation of aggression and full withdrawal.”
Israel Firm on Total Hamas Disarmament
Israel, on the other hand, has maintained that the war will continue until Hamas is dismantled completely. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected any proposal that allows Hamas to remain armed or in power. His office reaffirmed that only the complete demilitarisation of Gaza and removal of Hamas leadership can bring the conflict to a close.
Ongoing Humanitarian Toll
The war has taken a severe toll on both sides. Gaza’s health authorities report over 58,600 deaths since the conflict began in October 2023. Israel has lost approximately 1,650 people, including soldiers, civilians, and foreign nationals. Thousands remain displaced, and humanitarian aid continues to be blocked or restricted by ongoing hostilities.
Negotiators Face Stalemate
With both sides holding firm, talks remain deadlocked. Mediators are reportedly working to bridge key gaps, including the sequencing of troop withdrawals, guarantees on aid access, and political assurances on a permanent truce. Whether a breakthrough is possible in the coming weeks remains uncertain.
