Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, alongside US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, announced Hamas’ response to a proposal for releasing remaining hostages in Gaza and halting the ongoing conflict.
Al Thani described the reply as generally positive, although specific details were not disclosed due to the sensitivity of the situation. Blinken confirmed the United States is reviewing Hamas’ response and intends to discuss it with Israeli officials.
The proposal’s framework, agreed upon by negotiators in Paris, outlines a phased approach to civilian hostage releases and potential ceasefire extensions. Qatar, a pivotal mediator in negotiations with Hamas, received the response on Tuesday and relayed it to Blinken upon his arrival in Doha.
Blinken’s reaction to Hamas’ proposal was reportedly positive, according to sources. President Biden briefed on the response, described it as “a little over the top,” emphasizing ongoing negotiations and uncertainty about Hamas’ stance.
Hamas’ counterproposal, characterized as “reasonable” by sources, avoids its key demands for Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza or a definitive end to the conflict. Instead, it focuses on broader ceasefire terms, relief efforts, and a prisoner exchange. Hamas’ statement lacked specific details about its response.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed receipt of Hamas’ response, signaling the next phase of negotiations. Netanyahu remains committed to military action until Hamas leadership is eliminated, prolonging the ceasefire talks.
Efforts to release more hostages have faced hurdles since November’s collapsed agreement. The previous deal, exchanging over 100 hostages for a weeklong ceasefire, highlighted the potential for breakthroughs amid escalating regional tensions.
Blinken emphasized the seriousness of the proposal and the ongoing pursuit of a comprehensive agreement. Despite challenges, diplomatic efforts persist in seeking a viable resolution to the Gaza conflict.
