Israel overlooks ‘unacceptable’ Hamas ceasefire terms

(MENAFN)
Israel has rejected the latest ceasefire proposal modifications submitted by Hamas but confirmed it will proceed with indirect negotiations in Doha, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office on Saturday, cited by Israeli media.

An Israeli delegation is set to travel to Qatar on Sunday for continued talks with the Palestinian militant group.

Last week, US President Donald Trump presented what he called a “final proposal” for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, urging swift responses from both sides. Hamas replied on Friday with what it described as a “positive spirit,” expressing readiness to move forward with implementing the framework, though it submitted suggested changes.

According to sources close to the mediation, Hamas’ proposed amendments include holding discussions on a permanent ceasefire during the 60-day truce, reinstating full UN humanitarian aid instead of relying on the US- and Israel-supported Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and requiring Israeli forces to withdraw to positions held before March.

Netanyahu’s office labeled these changes as “unacceptable” but did not elaborate on which elements were specifically rejected. Despite this, Netanyahu has instructed the negotiating team to continue talks in Qatar.

The Israeli prime minister is also scheduled to meet with President Trump in Washington on Monday to discuss Gaza, Iran, and broader regional issues.

Trump said on Friday that he remains “optimistic” about the chances of reaching a deal. His Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected to visit the region to help finalize the agreement.

Israel maintains that it will not support any deal allowing Hamas to retain control of Gaza. A previous ceasefire agreement in January, which included a three-phase plan ending in Israeli withdrawal, fell apart in March when Israel refused to begin negotiations on a permanent end to the conflict.

Netanyahu has repeated his stance that Hamas must surrender, disarm, and exit Gaza — demands the group continues to reject.

The war began after Hamas launched a surprise assault on southern Israel in October 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Around 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with fewer than half reportedly still alive. Israel’s military campaign has since resulted in the deaths of at least 57,000 people in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry.

On Saturday, protests broke out across Israel, with families of the hostages demanding a ceasefire and urging the government to bring their loved ones home. Demonstrations took place in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva.

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