Israel rejects Hamas ceasefire proposal, insists on its own terms to end Gaza war

Israel rejects Hamas ceasefire proposal, insists on its own terms to end Gaza war

Israel has rejected a new ceasefire proposal from Hamas, reaffirming that the war in Gaza will end only under conditions set by Tel Aviv.

In a statement on Wednesday, Hamas reiterated its readiness for a “comprehensive deal” that would include the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reopening of border crossings for humanitarian aid, and the launch of reconstruction efforts. The group also proposed the creation of an independent technocratic administration to manage Gaza’s civil affairs.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the offer as “a spin,” stressing that Israel will only consider ending the war if Hamas agrees to:

  • Full Israeli security control over Gaza
  • Complete demilitarisation of Hamas and Gaza
  • Establishment of a non-Palestinian administration to govern Gaza
  • Immediate release of all hostages

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz echoed this position, warning that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing “at full strength” for a major offensive on Gaza City. Katz cautioned that Hamas must either accept Israel’s terms — beginning with hostage release and disarmament — or face destruction similar to what befell Rafah and Beit Hanoun.

The rejection comes after Hamas accepted a Qatar-brokered ceasefire framework last month, which Israel did not formally respond to or present for cabinet approval. Netanyahu has since stated that while Israel is open to considering a comprehensive deal, no agreement can be finalized in the immediate future.

With both sides holding firm to sharply divergent terms, the conflict shows little sign of resolution, and Gaza faces continued humanitarian and security crises.

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