Gaza: Hamas Rejects US Ceasefire Proposal as Insufficient

In a tense standoff, the prospect of a ceasefire in Gaza remains uncertain. A senior Hamas official told BBC that the Islamic movement will reject the latest U.S. proposal for a ceasefire agreement in the region. While there are calls for peace in the Gaza Strip, Hamas appears to be holding firm. The official noted that the proposal does not address key demands, including the permanent cessation of hostilities. An answer is expected shortly. Exiled Hamas leader Bassem Naim stated to the French Agency that the American proposal fails to meet movement requirements, essentially perpetuating occupation, killings, and starvation. ‘This proposal satisfies none of our people’s demands, especially the end of war and famine,’ emphasized Bassem Naim, adding that Hamas leadership is evaluating its response. Currently, ceasefire negotiations have not borne fruit. Israeli media reports suggest the ceasefire plan involves the release of 10 live hostages and the repatriation of the remains of 18 deceased captives in two phases, in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. If both sides agree on ending the conflict during this period, remaining hostages in Gaza would also be freed. According to the proposed plan, UN and international aid organizations would resume distributing humanitarian aid in the Palestinian enclave. The Israeli government has not officially commented, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly informed hostage families on Thursday that he accepts the Witkoff plan.