CAIRO: A senior official of the Palestinian resistance group Hamas confirmed Thursday that the group’s delegation in talks seeking a Gaza truce left Cairo for consultations in Doha while voicing dissatisfaction with Israel’s responses so far, AFP reported.
Expressing dissatisfaction with Israel’s responses thus far, the official, highlighted that the initial Israeli replies fail to meet the minimum requirements for a permanent cessation of hostilities, as demanded by Hamas conditions.
“We are awaiting the final official response from the enemy (Israel),” said the official, who was involved in negotiations in Cairo.
Hamas has steadfastly insisted on key demands, including the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of displaced persons to their homes, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in the besieged territory. Emphasizing the paramount importance of safeguarding the safety of their people, the official reiterated the group’s unwavering stance on these critical issues.
Hamas Truce Talks Defends on US to Pressure Israel
Contrary to Hamas, Israel’s stance has centered on securing a comprehensive list of hostages believed to be held in Gaza, a task that the Palestinian resistance group contends is unfeasible amidst ongoing Israeli airstrikes. Mahmoud Mardawi, another Palestinian resistance group official, emphasized that the outcome of negotiations now rests largely on Washington’s willingness to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government to reach an agreement.
With the holy month of Ramadan looming, there is a sense of urgency to achieve a ceasefire before its commencement, potentially as early as Sunday depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. However, negotiations are far from concluded, as a third Hamas official underscored that efforts to reach an agreement will continue.
Mediators in Egypt have faced significant challenges in navigating the complexities of the talks, which aim to end the six-month-long conflict in Gaza. Since October 7, Israel’s relentless attacks have led to the killing of at least 30,800 Palestinians, mostly women and children, as reported by Gaza’s health ministry.
