Hamas Rebuffs New Israeli Conditions in Gaza Ceasefire Talks

Hamas rejected new Israeli conditions in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, dimming hopes for a resolution in the U.S.-backed effort to end a 10-month war. The talks, mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, face obstacles including Israel's presence in the Philadelphi Corridor. A permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal are key demands of Hamas.

Hamas rejected new Israeli conditions in ceasefire talks on Sunday, casting doubt on the success of the ongoing U.S.-backed effort to end the 10-month war in Gaza.

The negotiations, which have been on and off for months, have yet to yield an agreement to end Israel's military campaign in Gaza or secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas during their Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Talks have been mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, with major sticking points including the presence of Israeli troops in the Philadelphi Corridor, a 14.5 km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt.

According to Hamas official Osama Hamdan, Israel has reneged on commitments and introduced new conditions, such as the screening of displaced Palestinians as they return to northern Gaza. In July, a U.S. proposal was accepted by Hamas to start talks on releasing Israeli hostages, a discussion that remains unresolved. Senior official Izzat El-Reshiq stated that any agreement must include a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)