Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani announced on Tuesday that Hamas has given a “generally positive” response to a proposed truce deal with Israel. The truce deal, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, aims to halt the Israeli assault on Gaza.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a press conference in Doha, emphasized the deal’s essential nature, though acknowledging that there is still work to be done. The proposed agreement includes provisions for relief and shelter, reconstruction, the lifting of a 17-year-old siege, and the completion of a “prisoner exchange” process.
Qatar has been actively involved in mediating the truce, collaborating with the US and Egypt. The mediation faces challenges, and events on the ground in Gaza influence the negotiations. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al Thani expressed hope for a positive outcome, indicating ongoing efforts to reach an agreement soon.
Hamas, in a statement, confirmed that its leaders had reviewed the comprehensive ceasefire deal with a positive spirit. The group emphasized key aspects such as securing relief, reconstruction, ending the siege, and completing the prisoner exchange process.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently on a Middle East tour, shared Hamas’s response with Israeli officials. The proposed truce was formulated over a week ago in discussions involving US and Israeli spy chiefs, along with Egyptian and Qatari officials.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Hamas’s response is being thoroughly evaluated by all parties involved in the mediation process. Hamas has previously insisted that any deal must bring about a definitive end to the war, while Israel has maintained that it will not permanently halt the war until Hamas is dismantled. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue.
