In an unprecedented move on Friday, Hamas flatly rejected Israel's latest proposal for a hostage release deal before even having the opportunity to see its contents. This revelation, according to sources cited by Israeli, Palestinian, and Egyptian officials, highlights a dramatic twist in the ongoing negotiations.
Israel's proposal reportedly fell short of Hamas's primary demand: the unrestricted return of Palestinians to northern Gaza. According to officials, this demand is a critical sticking point. Israeli authorities are cautious about granting such a concession, fearing that Hamas terrorists would exploit the opportunity to infiltrate civilian areas within the enclave.
An unnamed Israeli official expressed bewilderment at Hamas's hasty rejection, stating, "The messages from Hamas are bizarre because we haven't sent it yet, nobody has read it yet. Even the negotiators haven't got it yet. They will read it before transferring it to Hamas for their reaction."
HAMAS REJECT CEASEFIRE, WANT TOTAL CONTROL OF HAMAS ENCLAVE AKA GAZA https://t.co/PKDxgbKVLD
— frank kilmore (@FrankKilmore) July 26, 2024
During a speech to the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored Israel's "intense efforts" to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. Yet, the path to a deal remains fraught with obstacles.
One major roadblock, according to an Egyptian official, is Israel's demand to maintain control over the Philadelphi Corridor along Gaza's border with Egypt. This demand was met with firm rejection from Cairo, which insisted it was not part of the original proposal presented by U.S. President Joe Biden last month. This proposal, completed before Israel's strategic seizure of the corridor, is viewed by the IDF as a crucial route for Hamas's smuggling of weapons and armament materials.
Ceasefire will only lead to more death and destruction going forward.
— Hussain Abdul-Hussain (@hahussain) July 26, 2024
You want to stop death, force Hamas to accept peace. https://t.co/3Hja6QL52c
Netanyahu's public assertions regarding the prevention of Gazans' return to northern areas and the continued control of the Philadelphi Corridor have drawn criticism from security officials. They argue that such principled stances jeopardize the chances for a successful hostage release deal. "Netanyahu's principles will harm the chances for a hostage release deal," they stated.
From the White House, National Security Spokesperson John Kirby offered a glimmer of hope, indicating that a deal was "closer than ever" but acknowledged remaining gaps. "Both sides have to make compromises," Kirby emphasized.
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, after a meeting with Netanyahu, reiterated Israel's right to self-defense while stressing the importance of the manner in which it is exercised. Harris voiced her deep concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, "I made clear my serious concern about the dire humanitarian situation there. I will not be silent."
And then if the Hamas member is eliminated he is immediately classified as a civilian. And if it is ten of them, it's ten civilians according to the Hamas "health ministry." The whole criminal organization is vile. Then, the day there is a ceasefire, these guys pop up wearing… https://t.co/J8s6U2wPVk
— Seth Frantzman (@sfrantzman) July 25, 2024
Harris also elaborated on what a comprehensive ceasefire deal would entail. She outlined a two-phase plan: the first phase would establish a full ceasefire, including the withdrawal of the Israeli military from population centers in Gaza. The second phase would see the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, aiming for a permanent end to hostilities. "It is time for this war to end," Harris declared.
The situation remains fluid and complex, with each side standing firm on key issues. The international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will bring lasting peace to the region.
