Hamas has officially turned down Israel’s latest ceasefire offer, insisting on a comprehensive deal that includes the release of all remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and a permanent end to the war. In a video statement, Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya dismissed partial agreements, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of using them to prolong the conflict.
Israel’s proposal involved a 45-day truce for the release of 10 hostages, but Hamas remains firm on negotiating only a full exchange. Fifty-nine hostages are still held, with 24 believed to be alive. Meanwhile, far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for intensified military action against Hamas.
Hayya claimed Netanyahu’s government prioritizes continuing the war over saving hostages, while Hamas is prepared to discuss a complete prisoner swap and ceasefire. Despite past openness to a broader deal, no progress has been made. Israel’s goal remains Hamas’s total disarmament and elimination.
Meanwhile, Gaza faces relentless airstrikes and a severe aid blockade. Recent Israeli attacks killed at least 37 people, mostly displaced civilians in a tent camp in al-Mawasi, where witnesses described tents engulfed in flames after a powerful explosion. The Israeli military stated it was investigating but emphasized strikes had targeted over 100 “terror sites.”
Israel denies aid shortages, maintaining its blockade since March 1 to pressure Hamas. However, aid agencies warn Gaza’s humanitarian system is near collapse.
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s retaliatory campaign has reportedly killed over 51,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
