CurrentReport Blog Efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas have hit a deadlock, with both sides blaming each other for the stalemate. Despite reported progress in recent days, fresh disagreements have emerged, derailing the possibility of a truce.
Hamas Accuses Israel of New Conditions
Hamas claimed that Israel introduced additional conditions that delayed the agreement.
“The occupation has set new conditions related to withdrawal, ceasefire, prisoners, and the return of the displaced, which has delayed reaching the agreement that was available,” Hamas said in a statement.
The group emphasized its flexibility in the negotiations, which are being mediated by Qatar and Egypt, and described the talks as serious.
Netanyahu Blames Hamas
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuted Hamas’ claims, accusing the group of backtracking on previously reached understandings.
“The Hamas terrorist organization continues to lie. They are reneging on understandings that have already been reached and are continuing to create difficulties in the negotiations,” Netanyahu said.
Despite the challenges, Netanyahu stressed Israel’s commitment to securing the return of hostages taken during the conflict.
Mediators Struggle to Bridge the Divide
Negotiators from Qatar and Egypt, along with U.S. officials, have intensified their mediation efforts over the past two weeks to finalize a phased agreement. However, key sticking points include troop deployments and the long-term governance of Gaza.
Ongoing Tensions in Gaza
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel intends to maintain security control of Gaza through buffer zones and control posts.
“Israel will retain security control of the enclave,” Katz said, underscoring Israel’s goal to neutralize Hamas’ threat to its citizens.
Meanwhile, Hamas is demanding an end to the war and a cessation of hostilities, while Israel insists on eliminating Hamas’ control of the enclave before any ceasefire is finalized.
Looking Ahead
As negotiations continue, the stalemate highlights the deep mistrust between both sides and the complexity of reaching a resolution in the conflict. Mediators face an uphill task in bridging the gaps to establish lasting peace.
