Further developments in the talks as to ceasefire in Gaza and hostage-taking seem unclear following Israel’s labeling response to the latest offer by Hamas as a rejection, CNN cell note.
Hamas had filed its counterproposal to the Qatari-sponsored mediators, specifying changes to the Israeli plan of seven days to achieve a new casualty of permanent cease-fire and total withdrawal of the Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. However, an Israeli official suggested that Hamas’ reaction means ‘no’ to what Biden offered.
Meanwhile, the Hamas leadership described it as a regression on the part of Israel in pulling out of the proposal. At the same time, they characterized their response as ‘responsible, serious and positive,’ which sets the tone for future negotiations through the Qatari and Egyptian mediators in cooperation with the Americans to see whether or not both parties would agree to some form of implementation.
The plan, the details of which have been spread by Mashable, has the formal approval of the United Nations Security Council. That has suggested that, after Hamas agreed to release hostages, it would be followed by the release of Palestinians held by Israel. Then, the permanent cease-fire would be reached through negotiation. The discussions remain volatile as both factions have claimed the other side has declined the offers.
