Hamas Criticizes Israeli Response to Ceasefire Framework, Alleges Obstacles to Agreement

Gaza, The Gulf Observer: The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has expressed dissatisfaction with Israel’s response to a proposed framework agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza, asserting that it hinders the progress towards a mutually acceptable deal.

During a press conference, senior Hamas leader Osama Hamdan stated that his group carefully reviewed Israel’s response and deemed it a deviation from the proposed framework. Hamdan claimed that the Israeli response introduces conditions and obstacles that impede the path to a comprehensive agreement to halt the aggression against the Palestinian people.

“The (Israeli) occupation’s response to the Paris proposal doesn’t guarantee the freedom of movement of residents and the return of displaced people to their homes and areas and also doesn’t include a total withdrawal from all areas of the Gaza Strip,” Hamdan explained.

He further accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of employing a strategy of evasion and procrastination, emphasizing that Netanyahu’s behavior does not indicate a sincere commitment to achieving a ceasefire deal. According to Hamdan, the Israeli response falls short in ensuring the essential elements for a lasting peace, such as the freedom of movement for residents and the return of displaced individuals to their homes.

Hamas remains committed to finding a resolution to the ongoing conflict, but the group’s leadership asserts that the current Israeli stance impedes progress towards a comprehensive ceasefire agreement. The situation continues to unfold against the backdrop of longstanding tensions in the region.