Hamas Surprised of U.S. Envoy's Remarks, Reaffirms Commitment to Ceasefire Deal
Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to continuing negotiations and reaching a permanent ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
The movement said in an official statement that its latest response to the mediators' proposal came after extensive consultations with Palestinian factions, friendly nations, and mediators.
Moreover, Hamas emphasized its positive engagement with all feedback received, calling it a reflection of its 'sincere commitment to supporting international mediation efforts and constructively engaging with all proposed initiatives.'
It added that it was surprised by Weitecov's critical comments, especially given that the mediators themselves had welcomed the group's response and described it as constructive and encouraging toward a comprehensive deal.
On Thursday, U.S. envoy Steve Weitecov stated that the United States had decided to pull its negotiating team from Doha for consultations, citing Hamas's latest response as a sign of 'lack of genuine intent to reach an agreement.'
Weitecov claimed that 'Hamas is not showing goodwill despite the intense mediation efforts,' noting that Washington is exploring alternative options to secure the release of hostages and restore stability in Gaza.
However, Palestinian-American businessman Bishara Bahbah disagreed with Weitecov's assessment, calling Hamas's response 'realistic and sincere.' In a post on Facebook, Bahbah wrote: 'Hamas submitted its response this morning to the Israeli proposal on troop deployment and prisoner exchange. It was a genuine and positive reply. Now Israel must engage in serious and swift negotiations to reach a ceasefire. The people of Gaza have had enough of killing, destruction, and hunger.'
Meanwhile, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that, in light of Hamas's response, the Israeli negotiation team was recalled from Doha for further consultations in Tel Aviv. Israel's public broadcaster cited an unnamed source saying 'critical decisions must now be made,' and that the move had been coordinated with all relevant parties.
On the ground, the Israeli occupation forces continue genocide and famine atrocities against people of Gaza for the 658th consecutive day, which has resulted in ongoing massacres targeting civilians, particularly women and children, and has deepened the humanitarian catastrophe amid a suffocating blockade on the war-torn enclave.
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