Hamas, the Palestinian resistance movement, claims that Israel has obstructed all attempts by mediators to broker a ceasefire agreement in the besieged Gaza Strip. According to Sami Abu Zuhri, Israel has rejected calls to halt its attacks on Gaza, ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid, and facilitate the return of displaced Palestinians.
Efforts in negotiations held in Cairo, Egypt, are awaiting an official response from Israel, with initial indications falling short of Hamas' minimum requirements for a permanent cessation of hostilities. Hamas insists on a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of displaced individuals, and the entry of humanitarian aid to initiate reconstruction in the besieged territory.
Mahmoud Mardawi, another Hamas official, asserts that the fate of negotiations now hinges on the United States, Israel's key ally. He suggests that a ceasefire agreement could be reached before the start of Ramadan if Israel demonstrates sincerity and expedites the process.
Despite talks in Cairo yielding no breakthrough, Hamas intends to resume negotiations next week. Envoys from the US, Qatar, and Hamas have been engaged in ceasefire discussions.
Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israel's airstrikes and shelling claiming innocent lives. The Gaza Health Ministry reports a significant death toll and injuries, with ongoing suffering due to malnutrition and dehydration among the population. The recent deadly airstrike on a mosque in the Jabalia refugee camp underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
