For days it was unclear how Hamas would react to the US proposal for a ceasefire. In its response, the terrorist organization apparently insisted on numerous changes. Israel said this would be tantamount to a rejection.
The exact wording is not known. However, the joint response of the terrorist organizations Hamas and Islamic Jihad amounts to a rejection, said an Israeli official in the Israeli media who wished to remain anonymous.
According to him, Hamas has changed the main points of the US proposal for a ceasefire and for the release of the hostages. Another unnamed official confirmed that Hamas had presented a new timetable for a permanent ceasefire with Israel and for the withdrawal of troops from Gaza, including Rafah.
Hamas: Ready to reach agreement
The Arab broadcaster Al Jazeera reports that it is important to Hamas that its troops withdraw from the Rafah border crossing and from the buffer zone between Egypt and Gaza.
While the Israeli media are talking about a rejection, a member of Hamas’ political office said the response was responsible, serious and positive. Now it is Israel’s turn.
A short press release from the terrorist organizations states that the response puts the interests of the Palestinian people first. At the same time, Hamas and Islamic Jihad declare their positive readiness to reach an agreement that will end the war, it continues.
Egypt wants to continue negotiations
Mediators, the US and Israel are still evaluating the text. Egypt said it would continue its negotiation efforts until an agreement is reached.