Hamas Softens Cease-Fire Proposal but Sticks to Key Demand, Dampening Prospects for Immediate Agreement
In the latest development in the ongoing negotiations for a cease-fire in Gaza, Hamas has softened its position but is still holding firm on a key demand that has been a major obstacle to reaching a deal. According to two senior officials from countries involved in the talks, this has dimmed hopes for an imminent agreement, despite recent optimism expressed by U.S. and Israeli officials.
Hamas presented a counterproposal on Wednesday, seeking international assurances that both sides will continue negotiating until a final deal is reached to end the war and free all remaining hostages in Gaza. The group is concerned that if they release hostages without guarantees, Israel may restart the conflict, one official explained.
However, Israeli negotiators immediately rejected this demand, insisting on the option to resume fighting if necessary. They argue that without this leverage, Hamas could drag out the negotiations and effectively secure a permanent cease-fire without declaring it.
At the core of the dispute is the future of Gaza, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to dismantle Hamas while the group aims to maintain its grip on power. Despite this, Israel’s military leaders are increasingly in favor of a deal that would bring home the remaining hostages, even if it means leaving Hamas in control for the time being.
The negotiations are based on a three-stage framework endorsed by President Biden and the United Nations Security Council, with both sides agreeing on a six-week cease-fire and the release of most civilian hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The next step would involve negotiations for a permanent end to the war and the release of remaining hostages, mostly soldiers.
As talks progress, CIA Director William J. Burns is set to meet with intelligence chiefs from Israel, Europe, and other countries in Doha to discuss the cease-fire deal. American officials believe that precise conditions outlined in the revised deal could lead to the release of hostages after months of captivity.
However, uncertainties remain as to whether Netanyahu’s government would support a deal that ends the conflict in Gaza. With approximately 120 hostages still in Gaza, out of around 250 abducted individuals, the negotiations continue to face challenges.
Despite the hurdles, an Israeli delegation led by Mossad chief David Barnea recently visited Qatar for talks, signaling ongoing efforts to reach a resolution. Hamas has made some concessions in its latest proposal, but the demand for assurances on continuing negotiations until a permanent cease-fire is reached remains a sticking point.
As the cease-fire talks progress, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza continues, with airstrikes targeting areas where Palestinian militants are believed to be operating. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of the negotiations in search of a lasting peace agreement.
