Hamas and Israel, on Wednesday, traded blame over their failure to conclude a ceasefire agreement, despite reported progress from both sides in recent days.
Hamas claimed that Israel had introduced new conditions related to withdrawal, ceasefire, prisoners, and the return of displaced people, which delayed reaching an agreement. Hamas emphasized its flexibility and the seriousness of the talks, mediated by Qatar and Egypt.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of reneging on previously reached understandings and creating difficulties in the negotiations. Netanyahu stated that Israel would continue its relentless efforts to return hostages.
Israeli negotiators returned to Israel from Qatar for consultations about a hostage deal after a significant week of talks. The U.S., Qatar, and Egypt have intensified efforts to conclude a phased deal in recent weeks, with challenges arising over Israeli troop deployments.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel would retain security control of Gaza, including through buffer zones and control posts. Hamas demands an end to the war, while Israel insists on ending Hamas’ rule of the enclave to ensure it no longer poses a threat to Israelis.
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