Why it matters:
Despite international efforts to broker a ceasefire, the latest proposal by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff lacks the necessary commitments. Hamas is demanding a halt to hostilities and ensuring Israeli withdrawal. The group’s response could determine the direction of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
What he’s saying:
Jihad Taha, spokesperson for Hamas, said the movement is responsibly and jointly reviewing Steve Witkoff’s ceasefire proposal in coordination with other resistance groups. However, he criticized the draft for lacking clear and binding guarantees.
“The proposal fails to address many of Hamas’ core demands and contains no transparent assurances,” Taha stated.“
Any agreement must include a complete ceasefire and a full withdrawal of Israeli occupying forces from Gaza.”
He also stressed that Hamas remains open to any initiative that leads to a genuine end to the war and Israeli exit from Gaza. Still, he noted that the final version of Witkoff’s plan lacks any immediate or phased commitment to cease hostilities.
Taha further called on international organizations to declare an emergency to save Gaza from a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.
Key points:
- The Palestinian resistance group has made it clear that any ceasefire proposal must include serious, written commitments to fully end hostilities and ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
- The plan put forth by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is being reviewed by Hamas and other resistance factions, but the group criticizes it for lacking transparency, clarity, and enforceable terms.
Go deeper:
Israel launched its war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, aiming to dismantle Hamas. However, it failed to achieve this goal and was forced to agree to a prisoner swap. A temporary ceasefire was reached on January 19, 2025, but Israel later refused to enter a second round of negotiations and resumed attacks.
ahmad shirzadian
