Hamas dismissed Israel’s ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt, asserting it failed to address Palestinian factions’ demands. Despite labeling it as “intransigent,” Hamas vowed to examine the proposal and relay their response to the mediators.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disclosed intentions for an incursion into Rafah, Gaza’s last sanctuary for displaced Palestinians, following the rejection of the ceasefire proposal during Cairo talks.
Negotiations involving Qatari and Egyptian mediators alongside CIA Director William Burns, aimed to alleviate the dire situation after six months of conflict.
Senior Hamas official Ali Baraka reiterated their rejection of Israel’s latest proposals, citing a lack of progress in negotiations.
Hamas insists on an end to Israeli military operations, withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.
As tensions escalate, Rafah remains pivotal, hosting both displaced civilians and Hamas combat units. Concerns mount over a potential humanitarian catastrophe should Israel proceed with its planned offensive.
Netanyahu emphasized the pursuit of victory over Hamas, linking it with the liberation of hostages and an incursion into Rafah, though refraining from specifying a date.
Negotiations aim to secure the release of around 40 hostages, out of the 253 seized by Hamas in October, in the initial stage of a prospective deal.
