Khalil Al-Hayya's Stance on Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange
Khalil Al-Hayya, the acting head of Hamas' political bureau in Gaza, has stated unequivocally that there will be no prisoner exchange deal with Israel until the ongoing conflict in the region ceases. In an interview with Al-Aqsa TV, Al-Hayya emphasized that a ceasefire is a prerequisite for any negotiations regarding prisoner exchanges, framing it as an interconnected equation. He remarked, "Without stopping the war, there is no prisoner exchange. We want this aggression to stop, and it must stop first for any prisoner exchange to take place."
Al-Hayya disclosed that Hamas is engaged in discussions with various countries and mediators to advance ceasefire negotiations. However, he criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for obstructing progress in these talks, attributing the delays to political motivations. He expressed Hamas' readiness for ceasefire efforts, contingent upon the existence of genuine willingness from Israel to halt hostilities.
Israeli Government's Position on Negotiations
Reports indicate that Netanyahu has rejected requests from the Israeli negotiating team to expand their authority to facilitate a prisoner exchange agreement with Hamas. According to the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the negotiating team has expressed frustration over their limited powers, which hinder their ability to engage in effective indirect negotiations with Hamas.
Netanyahu, alongside Defense Minister Yisrael Katz, has dismissed proposals from the negotiating team aimed at reaching a deal for the return of Israeli prisoners held in Gaza. The Prime Minister remains committed to maintaining control over strategic areas in Gaza, such as the Netzarim axis and the Rafah crossing, and has shown reluctance to cease military operations as part of any potential prisoner exchange agreement. In contrast, Hamas demands an end to the conflict and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region.
