Ceasefire Proposal Faces Resistance
Mediators have contacted Izz al-Din al-Haddad, head of Hamas’s military wing in Gaza, who has signaled opposition to the new U.S. ceasefire plan. The framework, introduced by President Donald Trump and accepted by Israel, requires Hamas to disarm and give up any role in governing Gaza.
Al-Haddad reportedly believes the plan is designed to weaken or eliminate Hamas regardless of compliance, and has indicated he intends to continue fighting.
Disagreement Within Hamas
- Some Hamas political leaders outside Gaza, particularly in Qatar, are said to be more open to the proposal with modifications.
- Their influence is limited, as they do not control the hostages still held by the group.
- An estimated 48 hostages remain, with only about 20 believed to be alive.
A major sticking point is the requirement to release all hostages within the first 72 hours of a ceasefire. Leaders view this as forfeiting their main bargaining power.
Concerns Over Enforcement and Security
Although President Trump has pledged that Israel would honor the deal, distrust remains within Hamas. Recent Israeli actions, including an attempted airstrike on Hamas leaders in Doha, have deepened skepticism.
Hamas members also object to the proposed deployment of a temporary international stabilization force led by the U.S. and Arab partners. They view such a force as another form of occupation.
Additionally, U.S. maps outlining Israeli troop withdrawals include a “security buffer zone” along Gaza’s borders with Egypt and Israel. The administration has not clarified how the zone would be managed, creating further contention.
Israel’s Response to the Plan
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly supported the U.S. proposal but has since pushed back on several terms. In a message shared on social media, he emphasized that Israeli forces would maintain a presence in parts of Gaza and vowed to resist the creation of a Palestinian state.
The U.S. framework specifies that Israeli troops should withdraw fully, except for a perimeter presence to prevent renewed attacks. It also states that completion of the plan could provide a “credible pathway” toward Palestinian self-determination.
Background of the Conflict
- The conflict escalated following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, which killed about 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages.
- Israel launched its offensive in Gaza in response.
- The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports more than 66,000 people killed since the campaign began.
Hamas has consistently said it will not disarm until a sovereign Palestinian state is created.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
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