NATIONAL: Hamas Rejects US-Brokered Ceasefire Proposal
Ceasefire Conditions Dismissed by Hamas
Hamas has officially rejected the ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States. The proposal, which includes the phased release of hostages held by Hamas and a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, was dismissed by the group’s leadership. Speaking to the BBC, a Hamas representative claimed the proposal contradicted the framework of prior discussions held with US special envoy Steve Witkoff.
Terms of the US Proposal
According to the US-mediated plan, Hamas was expected to release 10 living hostages and hand over 18 bodies in two separate phases. In return, Israel would enforce a 60-day ceasefire and release Palestinian prisoners. The total number of hostages believed to be held by Hamas is 58, with Israel estimating that around 20 of them may still be alive.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet issued an official response. However, in a meeting with the families of the hostages, he indicated a willingness to accept the terms under certain conditions.
Israel’s Continued Offensive in Gaza
Despite ongoing international diplomatic efforts, Israeli military operations in Gaza have intensified. Since March 18, Israel has launched continuous counterattacks, undermining the ceasefire efforts facilitated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
On May 19, Israel escalated its military action further, with Prime Minister Netanyahu declaring a mission to fully take control of Gaza. According to figures from the Health Ministry operating under Hamas, nearly 4,000 people have died in Gaza in the past ten weeks.
Expansion of Settlements in the West Bank
In a parallel development, Israel announced the approval of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. Additionally, the Israeli government will legalize unauthorized outposts already constructed in the area. This announcement was made public on Thursday.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz remarked that the move would hinder any possibility of establishing a Palestinian state. The West Bank has been under Israeli control since the 1967 war. Since then, Israel has continued to expand settlements and develop infrastructure, which has led to strong opposition from the 3 million Palestinians residing there.