In a dramatic twist over the intensifying conflict in Gaza, Hamas announced on Saturday that it is pushing for key amendments to the U.S.-backed ceasefire deal. The proposal calls for a 60-day pause in fighting, a phased release of hostages, the exchange of over 1,200 Palestinian prisoners, and an increase in humanitarian aid – all aimed at opening a door for dialogue. 😮
Hamas wants the hostages to be released in three phases throughout the truce, wider access to aid across Gaza, and even guarantees that could lead to a permanent ceasefire. However, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff slammed the group’s response, calling it "totally unacceptable" and emphasizing the need to stick to the original framework for talks.
The tension deepened when a senior Hamas official fired back, accusing Witkoff of complete bias, while also claiming that Israel’s version of the deal deviated significantly from previous discussions. Meanwhile, Israel's leadership, with Prime Minister Netanyahu affirming that the search for hostages and the defeat of Hamas must continue, warned that refusal to accept the proposal could lead to intensified military operations. 🚀
As the region grapples with the fallout from ongoing hostilities – with reported casualties mounting since October 7 and an escalation noted after the resumption of conflict on March 18 – the debate over peace and the means to achieve it remains as critical as ever. The world watches closely as these high-stakes negotiations continue to evolve.
Reference(s):
Hamas seeks changes to U.S. Gaza plan; Witkoff calls it 'unacceptable'
cgtn.com
