Hamas Declines Ceasefire Proposal Allowing Israeli Troops in Gaza

Hamas, the Palestinian group, has turned down a ceasefire proposal that would have led to the release of a few Israeli captives and a 30-day halt in hostilities. However, the proposal did not include the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. Insiders close to Hamas informed Middle East Eye that the proposal, put forward by Qatar, Egypt, and the US, has been officially rejected. This is despite claims in Israeli media that the proposal was still being deliberated. Hamas has consistently stated that any ceasefire agreement must ultimately result in the complete removal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.

Egypt and Qatar's Mediation Role

For several months, Egypt and Qatar have been mediating between Israel and Hamas. In November, a prisoner exchange deal resulted in the release of approximately 100 Israeli captives in return for about 240 Palestinian detainees. The initial phase of the new proposal would have led to the release of between 11 and 14 Israelis, including women and elderly individuals. This would be in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian detainees and a 30-day ceasefire.

US Hopes for a Ceasefire Deal

Despite the current proposals appearing to be a non-starter, officials informed Israeli news outlet Maariv that American officials participating in the discussions were hopeful of a ceasefire deal before the US election on November 5. On October 5, the Israeli military initiated a new offensive in northern Gaza. This followed the contentious “Generals' Plan”, proposed to the Israeli government, which seeks to evacuate northern Gaza to establish a "closed military zone". Rights groups have stated that this action would equate to ethnic cleansing.

The Generals' Plan and its Implications

According to the plan, anyone who remains would be classified as a Hamas operative and could be executed. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, estimates that approximately 400,000 people are still in northern Gaza, including Gaza City. Since the commencement of Israel's war in Gaza nearly 13 months ago, Israeli forces have reportedly killed over 43,000 Palestinians and injured more than 100,000. Over 10,000 are missing and presumed dead under the rubble. Gaza health sources report that at least 17,000 children and nearly 12,000 women are among the deceased.

Bottom Line

The rejection of the ceasefire proposal by Hamas raises questions about the future of peace in the region. With the Israeli forces' continued presence in the Gaza Strip and the high casualty rate, what could be the next steps towards achieving a resolution? What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share this article with your friends and engage in the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.