Hamas Criticizes US Proposal
Hamas has accused the United States of extending the conflict in Gaza by proposing changes to the ceasefire deal, which they claim allows Israel to continue its military actions. The group argues that the amended accord does not fulfill their demand for a permanent end to the conflict and calls for global pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept the original proposal presented by President Joe Biden and supported by the UN Security Council.
US Response and Revised Terms
Hamas spokesman Osama Hamdan stated that Israel has deviated from the initial agreement, and the US has failed to persuade Netanyahu to accept the previous terms. In response to Biden’s comments that Hamas is “backing away” from the deal, Hamas labeled these remarks as misleading, arguing that the new terms contradict the earlier framework.
Secretary of State’s Remarks
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, following a productive meeting with Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, described the current situation as critical for securing a ceasefire and achieving lasting peace. Blinken emphasized that the US’s bridging proposal represents a crucial opportunity to move forward.
Egyptian Concerns and Diplomacy
During a visit to Egypt, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi warned of the potential for regional escalation if the conflict continues and stressed the need for an immediate end to the war. He also highlighted the necessity for international recognition of a Palestinian state and the implementation of a two-state solution. Egypt and Qatar are collaborating with the US to mediate a ceasefire, with the proposed framework including a temporary halt in fighting, a prisoner exchange, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Ongoing Violence and Casualties
Despite ongoing negotiations, violence in Gaza persists. Recently, an Israeli military strike hit a school in Gaza City, causing significant casualties. According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, the conflict has resulted in over 40,000 deaths and nearly 93,000 injuries. The violence has also led to substantial casualties in Israel, with over 1,100 people killed and more than 200 taken captive during recent attacks.