Hamas Demands for Ceasefire: A Statement of Intent Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a significant development regarding the protracted Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hamas has officially submitted its response to a proposed ceasefire deal to U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. In a recent statement, the militant group outlined three "unequivocal" demands aimed at achieving a lasting peace and addressing humanitarian concerns in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas’s demands include a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid to the besieged territory. The statement emphasizes the necessity of these conditions for the restoration of stability and security for the Palestinian people.
Notably, the group has also committed to releasing ten living Israeli prisoners currently held by Hamas militants. This offer comes alongside the proposed return of eighteen deceased Israeli soldiers, contingent upon an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners being released from Israeli custody. This exchange is seen as a pivotal step that could foster a more conducive environment for negotiations.
The unfolding situation has drawn attention from various international bodies and humanitarian organizations. Hani Mahmoud, reporting live from Gaza City, provides on-the-ground insights into the prevailing conditions, while Lindsey Hutchison, head of the Global Humanitarian Policy, Advocacy, and Diplomacy Unit at Plan International, weighs in from New York on the critical humanitarian needs arising from the conflict.
As the region remains tense, these developments offer a fragile hope for peace. The outlined demands by Hamas could serve as a foundational framework for future negotiations, but questions remain about Israel’s response and the broader implications for Palestinian governance and stability in the area.
Watch the video by Al Jazeera English
Video “Hamas statement includes three ‘unequivocal’ demands” was uploaded on 05/31/2025 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English