Hamas has declared its willingness to engage in a ceasefire, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing conflict. The announcement comes amidst rising global calls for peace.
Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, has reportedly communicated to several international mediators its willingness to establish a ceasefire with Israel after announcing a truce in Lebanon.
The ceasefire, facilitated by the US, mandates that Israeli forces withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days and calls for the Lebanese army to be positioned along the border area previously controlled by Hezbollah.
Hamas values Lebanon and Hezbollah’s right to secure an agreement that safeguards the Lebanese people, expressing hope that this accord will lead to a resolution ending what they describe as the genocidal conflict against their people in Gaza. This statement was made by Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri during an interview with Reuters on Wednesday.
Abu Zuhri mentioned that Hamas has demonstrated “considerable flexibility” and continues to be “keen on reaching a resolution to end the conflict in Gaza.” However, he noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not appear interested.
A Hamas official, who wished to remain anonymous, informed AFP that the group has communicated with Egypt, Türkiye, and Qatar about its readiness for a ceasefire agreement and a meaningful prisoner exchange deal.
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In a statement released earlier on Wednesday, the group mentioned that the ceasefire would entail “the withdrawal of occupying forces, the return of displaced individuals, and reaching an authentic and comprehensive prisoner exchange agreement.”
Netanyahu has described the Lebanon ceasefire as a situation where Hezbollah has abandoned Hamas, enabling Israel to “intensify pressure” on Gaza.
The Israeli prime minister stated on Tuesday, “Since the second day of the war, Hamas anticipated Hezbollah would join them in battle. With Hezbollah not participating, Hamas is now isolated.” He also mentioned that a primary reason for the truce was “to separate fronts and isolate Hamas.”
“We are absolutely dedicated to fully eliminating Hamas,” Netanyahu added.
Israeli media reports that two hardliners in Netanyahu’s cabinet, Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, continue to oppose any ceasefire with Hamas. They have been advocating for West Jerusalem to completely occupy Gaza.
On October 7, 2023, following a series of raids by Hamas from Gaza that led to the deaths of over 1,100 Israelis and the capture of another 250 individuals, Israel declared war on the militant group. Among those taken captive, Israel believes that approximately 97 hostages remain in Gaza; this includes the bodies of 34 people who have been confirmed deceased.
