Israel States Hamas Rejects Key Elements of US Ceasefire Proposal for Gaza
JERUSALEM/CAIRO: Israel Reports Hamas Rejection of US Ceasefire Proposal
12.06.2024: On Tuesday, Hamas formally responded to a US proposal for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has been raging for eight months. According to Israel, this response was essentially a rejection. However, a Hamas official stated that the group simply reiterated its longstanding demands, which the current proposal does not address.
Key Points of the US Proposal
- US President Joe Biden outlined a ceasefire proposal on May 31.
- Hamas’ Response: Egypt and Qatar received the response but did not disclose details. An anonymous Hamas official mentioned that their response reaffirmed their stance on several key issues:
- A permanent end to hostilities in Gaza
- Withdrawal of Israeli forces
- Reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave
- Release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel
Israel’s Position
- Official Response: Israel has not publicly commented on the US proposal’s acceptance, though the US claims Israel agreed to it.
- Ongoing Assaults: Israel continues its military actions in central and southern Gaza, stating it will not cease its campaign until Hamas is eliminated.
Mediated Discussions and UN Involvement
- Negotiations: The US, Egypt, and Qatar have been mediating ceasefire talks. An anonymous official briefed on the situation mentioned Hamas proposed a new timeline for a permanent ceasefire and troop withdrawal.
- UN Security Council: On Monday, the Council backed a US resolution supporting Biden’s proposal. Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri expressed readiness to negotiate ceasefire details, indicating potential acceptance of the Security Council resolution.
Statements from Hamas and Allies
- Joint Statement: Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad indicated a willingness to reach a deal to end the conflict. This was seen as a positive sign, though US Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that a firm commitment from Hamas leadership in Gaza was still needed.
Ceasefire Plan Details
- Biden’s Proposal: A three-phase plan starting with a six-week ceasefire, Israeli military withdrawal from populated areas of Gaza, and phased release of hostages. Negotiations would aim for a permanent end to hostilities.
- US Response: The White House did not immediately comment on the Israeli remarks, but US officials, along with Egypt and Qatar, are reviewing Hamas’ response.
Background and Current Situation
- Conflict Origin: The conflict escalated following an attack by Hamas militants on October 7, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages taken. More than 100 hostages are believed to still be in Gaza.
- Israeli Retaliation: In response, Israel launched extensive air, ground, and sea assaults, resulting in over 37,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health authorities.
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Source – Arab News