Tel Aviv
The Hamas militant group, engaged in conflict with Israel, has reportedly reneged on a partial ceasefire for the release of hostages. Sources from Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) revealed that Ismael Haniyeh, the political head of Hamas, leading a delegation of senior Hamas leaders in Cairo, informed Egyptian negotiators that the group would only agree to a complete cessation of the war in the Gaza Strip. This development follows Israel’s agreement for a week-long truce, seeking the release of 40 hostages, including women, children, and elderly individuals requiring medical attention, held by Hamas. Israel had also committed to releasing Palestinian prisoners, including those with more severe charges. However, the impasse arises as Israel refuses to agree to a total end to the conflict, putting the fate of around 120 hostages held by Hamas in limbo. Haniyeh emphasized in negotiations that he was in Cairo to halt the war entirely, rejecting the possibility of a temporary ceasefire and hostage release. The previous ceasefire, from November 24 to December 1, saw the release of 105 hostages captured by Hamas on October 7 after violent incidents in South Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people. The conflict, initiated on October 27 when Israel Defense Forces (IDF) invaded the Gaza Strip, led to significant casualties in Gaza, with almost 20,000 Palestinians reported killed. The current negotiations remain critical as the parties navigate the complexities of achieving a lasting resolution in the region.
