GAZA: An official of the Palestinian resistance group Hamas on Sunday voiced doubt that a new round of Gaza truce talks with Israel would lead to any breakthrough because the gap between the two sides’ positions was too wide.
Speaking anonymously to AFP on Sunday, the official voiced doubts over the likelihood of a breakthrough in negotiations, asserting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s lack of seriousness hindered the prospect of meaningful dialogue. “I doubt that there will be any progress in these negotiations because the positions are too far apart. (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu is not serious and not interested,” the official said.
Furthermore, the official disclosed that Hamas had not yet decided whether to send a delegation to participate in upcoming talks aimed at securing a truce and facilitating the release of hostages. “There is no indication or decision yet within Hamas regarding sending a delegation to a new round of negotiations in Cairo or Doha,” the official told AFP.
Meanwhile, Israeli military strikes killed dozens of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, according to health officials. The Gaza Health Ministry reported on Sunday that more than 32,782 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza since October 7. Furthermore, over 75,298 people have been wounded. The toll includes 77 deaths and 108 injuries recorded within the past 24 hours alone.
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have been underway, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, yet significant obstacles exist as both sides maintain firm stances on their respective demands. While Hamas seeks an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, Israel remains steadfast in its objective to dismantle the group’s governing and military capabilities.
Despite the urgency of the situation, talks have been further complicated by the absence of a Hamas delegation in Cairo, pending clarification on potential new offers from Israel.
Meanwhile, the Israeli violence continues unabated, with ongoing strikes targeting civilian areas and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation has prompted international concern, with calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the initiation of substantive peace negotiations.
Gaza residents endure dire conditions, with widespread destruction and suffering permeating the enclave. The urgent need for humanitarian assistance is underscored by the World Court’s recent ruling, urging Israel to ensure basic food supplies to the besieged population.
