Hamas disclosed it has declined “new conditions” in an updated US-proposed ceasefire for Gaza, following negotiations with Israeli representatives in Qatar. The conflict, surpassing 10 months, has seen intensified global calls for a ceasefire. President Joe Biden expressed optimism, saying, “We are closer than we have ever been.”
This development follows the July 31 murder of Ismail Haniyeh, a Hamas political figure in Iran, for which Israel has been blamed, escalating Middle East tensions and fears of a broader conflict.
Continuous efforts for a truce, including a hostage release, were highlighted by Biden in May as originally an Israeli proposal. A consensus remains elusive despite “serious and constructive” talks in Doha, including a US “bridging proposal” for upcoming Cairo discussions.
Hamas objected to conditions perceived as imposed by Israel, such as Israeli military presence in Gaza, Israel’s authority over Palestinian prisoner selection for exchanges, and the deportation of certain prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pressed for adherence to the “May 27 principles” set by Biden. Netanyahu’s stance has faced criticism from Hamas, analysts, and Israeli protestors accusing him of prolonging the conflict.
Amid escalating tensions, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, ahead of their Israel visit, voiced concerns over the situation’s potential to spiral out of control, emphasizing the urgency of a ceasefire in Gaza.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz discussed with the visiting ministers, expecting support for any retaliatory actions against Iran for Haniyeh’s assassination, which Sejourne found “inappropriate” amid diplomatic efforts.
An attack by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, resulting in a Palestinian death, sparked global condemnation and calls for sanctions against Israeli government members implicated in encouraging violence against Palestinians.
This violence is attributed to Israel’s settlement policies, with immediate cessation demanded by international figures. The ongoing war, marked by a significant civilian toll and hostage-taking, began with a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, escalating the conflict further.
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