By Amigo News Staff
In the latest twist of the ongoing Gaza conflict, Hamas is holding its ground, insisting that Israel fully end its assault on Gaza as a condition for releasing hostages. Amid intense negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt, both sides are grappling with demands that have stalled peace efforts for over a year.
Hamas spokesperson Osama Hamdan, speaking in Algiers, reiterated the group's stance: \"A complete end to the aggression and a full withdrawal from lands the occupation invaded.\" He criticized recent comments by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who warned there would be \"hell to pay\" if hostages weren't released by his January inauguration. \"The U.S. president must make more disciplined and diplomatic statements,\" Hamdan remarked.
Israel, on the other hand, points fingers at Hamas. \"Hamas is the only obstacle to the release of the hostages,\" stated Eden Bar Tal, director general of Israel's foreign ministry. Israel remains steadfast, refusing to cease its operations until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are free.
The clock is ticking as international mediators push for a resolution before the U.S. administration changes hands. Many see Trump's upcoming inauguration as an unofficial deadline, adding pressure to already tense negotiations.
Intensifying Negotiations ⚖️
Israeli officials have engaged in talks in Qatar, with some reports suggesting that Mossad chief David Barnea may join the discussions. In a potential breakthrough, Hamas indicated it had approved a list of 34 hostages proposed by Israel for release in an initial phase of a truce, which includes female soldiers and civilians who are elderly, female, or minors. However, Israel awaits confirmation on their well-being.
Conflict's Human Toll 💔
The human cost of the conflict continues to rise. Health officials in Gaza report nearly 46,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel launched its assault, following a Hamas-led incursion into Israeli territory in October 2023 that resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and over 250 hostages taken.
On Tuesday alone, Israeli strikes claimed the lives of at least 24 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip. The Gaza health ministry has urgently called on international donors to provide fuel to keep medical services running. Strikes in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Jabalia have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including children.
The Israeli military defends its actions, citing substantial intelligence gained from detained Palestinians and alleging militant operations near medical facilities. Hamas and Gaza's health ministry deny these claims, stressing the impact on innocent civilians.
Global Eyes on Gaza 🌍
As the international community watches closely, the stakes couldn't be higher. Young people around the world are raising their voices on social media, calling for peace and an end to the suffering on both sides. The unfolding situation remains delicate, with hopes pinned on a breakthrough that could bring lasting change to the region.
Stay tuned to Amigo News for the latest updates on this developing story. ✌️
Reference(s):
Hamas stands by demand for end to Gaza war under hostage deal
cgtn.com
