The Israeli proposal to extend the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement has been deemed \"unacceptable\" by Hamas, according to statements made on Saturday. ✋🕊️
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem emphasized that extending the initial phase is an attempt by the Israeli occupation to reset the situation to zero, effectively shuffling the cards. He called on mediators and guarantor countries to ensure that Israel abides by all stages of the agreement. 📜🤝
\"The occupation is trying to bring things back to zero point by shuffling the cards and proposing the extension of the first phase,\" Qassem explained. He also highlighted concerns that the extension aims to facilitate the recovery of Israeli hostages while leaving the door open for renewed aggression against the Gaza Strip, which contradicts the agreement's terms.
Additionally, Qassem stated that there have been no negotiations regarding the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. He accused Israel of evading its commitment to end the war and to completely withdraw from Gaza, further escalating tensions in the region. 🔥🚫
The backdrop to these developments is the recent expiration of the 42-day initial phase of the three-stage agreement between Hamas and Israel, with no progress announced for its next phase. 📅🌐
Reference(s):
Hamas says extending 1st phase of Gaza ceasefire 'unacceptable'
cgtn.com
