Hamas Pushes for Full Israeli Withdrawal in Gaza Ceasefire Deal; US Envoy Calls Response ‘Unacceptable’
GAZA CITY:
Hamas confirmed Saturday that it had submitted its formal response to a US-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza, but the reply was swiftly condemned by Washington’s lead negotiator, who labeled it “totally unacceptable.”
US envoy Steve Witkoff, spearheading efforts to mediate an end to the Israel-Gaza conflict, criticized Hamas’s stance, accusing the group of backtracking on progress and rejecting a balanced framework aimed at ending hostilities and securing hostage releases.
While Hamas did not explicitly accept the latest truce proposal, a senior official within its political bureau described the response as “positive,” yet reiterated demands for a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza — long-standing conditions that have complicated negotiations.
In its statement, Hamas offered to release 10 Israeli hostages alive and return 18 bodies in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed Witkoff’s criticism, calling the Hamas response evidence of continued “rejectionism.” Israel had earlier warned the militant group to accept the ceasefire terms and release hostages or face total destruction.
Despite mounting international pressure to end the conflict, ceasefire talks remain deadlocked. Witkoff urged Hamas to “accept the framework proposal we put forward” and return to the negotiating table with genuine intent.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with growing calls from global leaders for an immediate ceasefire, sustained aid delivery, and the protection of civilians on both sides.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE