Hamas Response to U.S. Ceasefire Plan Opens Pathway to Agreement with Israel
Hamas has responded to a U.S. ceasefire plan for the war in Gaza against Israel, stating that it opens a “wide pathway” to reach an agreement. However, neither Hamas nor Israel have publicly committed to a deal.
The terrorist group submitted its formal response to a proposal laid out by U.S. President Joe Biden on May 31. Israel has deemed the response as a rejection, stating that Hamas reiterated longstanding demands that were not included in the current plan.
Egypt and Qatar have acknowledged receiving Hamas’ response but have not disclosed the details.
This development comes amidst a months-long conflict between Hamas and Israel, which began following an attack by the terrorist group on October 7. The ongoing military retaliation from Israeli forces has escalated tensions in the region.
Hamas officials have described their response as “responsible, serious, and positive,” emphasizing the need for a permanent end to hostilities in Gaza, withdrawal of Israeli forces, reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave, and the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel.
President Biden’s plan includes a ceasefire and phased release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinians jailed in Israel, with the ultimate goal of achieving a permanent end to the conflict between Hamas and Israel.
While the U.S. has stated that Israel accepted the proposal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that Israel will not cease its attacks until Hamas is eliminated.
The UN Security Council recently passed a U.S.-backed resolution supporting the ceasefire proposal. Hamas has indicated its acceptance of the resolution and willingness to negotiate the details of a ceasefire.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was in Tel Aviv for meetings with Israeli officials, described Hamas’ response as a “hopeful sign” but emphasized the importance of hearing directly from Hamas leadership in Gaza.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to engage in negotiations as they work towards a potential agreement.
