The Palestinian terrorist group Hamas said on Wednesday (25) that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza “are advancing seriously”, but that Israel has imposed new demands on key points that have delayed reaching an agreement. The statement was subsequently denied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused Hamas of “lying again”.
Israel and Hamas made progress on a possible agreement last week, when the terrorist group stated that a ceasefire and prisoner exchange could happen if the Israeli occupation of Gaza stopped “imposing new conditions.” The negotiations would be mediated by Egypt, with help from Qatar and the United States.
“The movement has demonstrated responsibility and flexibility. However, the occupation introduced new issues and conditions regarding the withdrawal (of Israeli troops from Gaza), the ceasefire, prisoners and the return of displaced people, which delayed reaching an agreement that was within reach,” he announced. Hamas in this Wednesday’s statement.
In response, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied the information, accusing Hamas of backtracking on what had already been agreed, creating difficulties in negotiations. “However, Israel will tirelessly continue its efforts to return all of our abductees,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
This Tuesday (24), the Israeli negotiating team – which includes high-ranking members of the intelligence services – returned to the country after a week of negotiations for “internal consultations for the continuation” of the talks, according to another statement released by Netanyahu.
Meanwhile, the Forum for Families of Hostages and Missing Persons, the main group representing the families of the 96 people still held hostage by Hamas, called on the Israeli government to sign an agreement, arguing that “conditions have never been better.”
“President-elect Donald Trump’s strong statement that he expects an agreement by January 20th (when he will take office), combined with the support of the Biden administration and the notable Israel’s achievements on the field have created an unprecedented opportunity. Hamas threats have diminished, Hezbollah and its leadership have been eliminated, and (former Hamas chief Yahya) Sinwar is no more,” the group said.