Hamas Rejects U.S. Accusations, Reaffirms Commitment to Ceasefire Negotiations
Palestinian Resistance Group Says Washington’s Allegations Are Misleading; Urges Focus on Ending Aggression, Lifting Siege, and Securing Lasting Agreement
Palestine, PUREWILAYAH.COM - The Palestinian Resistance movement Hamas has firmly rejected accusations by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff that it is obstructing ceasefire efforts in Gaza, describing the remarks as “inaccurate” and not reflective of the reality on the ground.
In a statement released early Friday, Hamas reaffirmed its continued commitment to “serious and responsible” negotiations aimed at ending the Israeli military campaign launched on October 7, 2023.
Ceasefire Commitment Underscored Amid U.S. Criticism
Hamas emphasized that it had recently submitted a comprehensive response to mediators following “extensive consultations with Palestinian factions, friendly countries, and all concerned parties.”
The movement reiterated that its stance has consistently shown “flexibility” and a willingness to overcome obstacles in the pursuit of a “just and comprehensive” agreement.
“Our priorities remain ending the aggression, lifting the siege, and reaching a stable and lasting agreement that preserves the rights and sacrifices of the Palestinian people,” the statement said.
Washington’s Portrayal Deemed ‘Inaccurate and Misleading’
Responding to Witkoff’s allegations that Hamas lacks seriousness and had undermined previous agreements, the group expressed surprise and disappointment. Hamas noted that international mediators had “welcomed and expressed satisfaction” with its latest position — in direct contradiction to the U.S. envoy’s claims.
“These remarks are not only inaccurate but contradict the positive feedback we received from mediators involved in the talks,” Hamas asserted.
The criticism comes after both U.S. and Israeli delegations withdrew from indirect negotiations held in Doha. Witkoff had accused Hamas of failing to unify the Palestinian stance and of reversing agreed elements of a phased ceasefire.
Focus on Humanitarian Aid, Withdrawal Maps, and Guarantees
According to Palestinian sources close to the negotiation process, Hamas’s latest response centers on three key demands:
Securing regular and unrestricted humanitarian aid access into the besieged Gaza Strip
Clarifying the maps and timetable for Israeli military withdrawal
Obtaining credible international guarantees to ensure the permanence of any ceasefire agreement
Resistance sources revealed that Hamas had rejected amendments made to the U.S.-backed proposal, which reportedly sought to reduce a previously proposed 60-day truce to just one week — without firm commitments on prisoner releases, reconstruction efforts, or long-term de-occupation arrangements.
Earlier frameworks, supported by Qatar and Egypt since January, had laid out a phased plan involving mutual prisoner exchanges, a staged Israeli withdrawal, and international reconstruction mechanisms. The current framework, shaped by the Netanyahu government and U.S. envoy Witkoff, appears to significantly diverge from those understandings.
Diplomatic Fallout Amid Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
Despite the growing tensions with Washington, Hamas has maintained its position as a serious negotiating party, vowing to continue its engagement in the talks.
“We are determined to reach an agreement that serves our people and ends the aggression,” the group stated.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly under sustained Israeli bombardment and total siege. Over 80% of the population has been displaced, critical infrastructure has been decimated, and aid access remains sporadic. With the collapse of diplomatic momentum, the future of any lasting ceasefire hangs in the balance. (PW)
Source: Al-Mayadeen