The Hamas militant group, currently engaged in conflict with the state of Israel, has reportedly withdrawn support for a partial ceasefire aimed at securing the release of hostages. Sources from Israel's Prime Minister’s Office indicate that Ismael Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, along with other senior leaders, conveyed to Egyptian negotiators that the group would only consider a comprehensive end to the hostilities in the Gaza Strip.
Disagreements between Israel and Hamas over a complete cessation of the conflict have left the fate of approximately 120 hostages held by Hamas hanging in the balance. Ismael Haniyeh made it clear during negotiations in Cairo that his objective was to halt the war, dismissing the possibility of a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Notably, Israel had previously agreed to a one-week truce, offering to halt hostilities in exchange for the release of 40 hostages, including women, children, and elderly individuals in need of medical attention, held by Hamas. Israel had also shown willingness to release Palestinian prisoners, including those charged with more serious offenses, as part of the exchange for hostages.
The conflict, initiated when the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) invaded the Gaza Strip on October 27, saw a temporary ceasefire from November 24 to December 1. During this period, 105 hostages captured by Hamas on October 7 were released following the mayhem and massacre in South Israel, resulting in the death of 1,200 people.
It's worth recalling that Israel had vowed to eliminate Hamas and assert complete control over Gaza, prompting the invasion and causing significant casualties, with almost 20,000 Palestinians losing their lives.
(With Agency Inputs)
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