Hamas has firmly stated that a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip is a prerequisite for any agreement regarding the ongoing conflict. This assertion comes amidst escalating tensions and a general strike in Israel, initiated to support families of prisoners held by Hamas. The strike has affected a wide array of sectors, including schools, public transport, and airports, reflecting the growing unrest among Israelis dissatisfied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the situation.
Khalil Al-Hayya, a senior Hamas official, emphasized that there are currently no substantial negotiations in place to facilitate a ceasefire or a prisoner exchange. He accused Netanyahu's government of prioritizing military action over diplomatic solutions, which has resulted in unnecessary casualties on both sides. Al-Hayya also pointed to the tragic deaths of six prisoners whose bodies were recently discovered, claiming that these losses could have been avoided through effective negotiations.
In parallel, the United States is reportedly crafting a final proposal aimed at establishing a ceasefire in Gaza, with consultations involving key regional players like Doha and Cairo. American officials believe that recent developments should motivate both parties to reach an agreement swiftly, especially given the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has seen significant loss of life and widespread destruction since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023.
