Hamas’ recent response to the US-suggested ceasefire in Tehran-Gaza shows significant yet careful development in a long and devastating conflict.
Hamas is calling for the American initiative to suspend hostility for 60 days, release of around 33 Israeli hostages and promote humanitarian assistance to Gaza, according to the latest report.
However, this response should not be misunderstood as fully accepted. Hamas is skeptical and has carefully weighed the offer, insisting on a comprehensive ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israelis from the Gaza Strip as non-negotiable terms.
Hamas’ stance shows a rare pragmatism amidst continued violence, but emphasizes deep distrust on Israeli side. Hamas is willing to participate in the ceasefire proposal, but Israel, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, will only accept the conditions Hamas rejected, particularly disarmament.
Netanyahu’s resistance to end the war is linked to his political survival. Therefore, extending the war will serve both domestic political interests and his vicious goals.
Meanwhile, the United States continues to show clear bias against Israel despite its publicly declared role as a mediator. Washington has political and military leverage to end catastrophic conflicts and alleviate the immense suffering of Gaza civilians, but it consistently prioritizes evil demands of Israel.
The US proposal, framed as a peace initiative, effectively supports the Israeli situation without adequately addressing the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.
Israel’s acceptance of the proposal for a ceasefire is considered purely tactical, with Netanyahu using the war to strengthen his political stance. Ending the conflict could undermine his powers, suggesting that Israel could extend the war despite civilian suffering and global pressure.
Conversely, Hamas exhibits rare pragmatism by engaging in the US proposal, calling for a complete withdrawal of Israel and a permanent ceasefire. However, Hamas is skeptical of the integrity of the proposal and the possibility that it will be fully implemented.
The United States continues to function as an initiator of peace talks and as an unquestioned ally of Israel, promoting policies that allow for continued occupation and suffering in Gaza.
Hamas has tried a bit towards negotiating a ceasefire, but Israel does not want to end the war. Part of this unwillingness is driven by Netanyahu’s political survival.
The world is watching as Gaza suffers constantly. Given the current political situation, it may be unrealistic to want a solution.