Hamas has rejected Israel’s latest cease-fire offer, instead proposing a comprehensive deal to end the war and exchange all hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
Israel’s proposal included a 45-day truce and the release of 10 hostages. Hamas dismissed it as a partial deal serving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political agenda.
Fifty-nine hostages remain in captivity, 24 of whom are believed to be alive. Talks remain stalled, with both sides far from a full agreement.
Hamas officials signalled earlier in the week that they would reject the offer. The group said it would not accept partial agreements, which it accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government of using to advance a political agenda while continuing the war and humanitarian blockade.
Hamas said it is prepared to negotiate a comprehensive deal to exchange all hostages for Palestinian prisoners and bring the conflict to an end. However, the two sides remain far apart on any agreement that would fully end the war.
Israel has said its objective is the total dismantling of Hamas. Meanwhile, airstrikes continue across Gaza, with dozens of deaths reported daily and humanitarian aid blocked from entering the territory.
