Hamas Says No Interim Truce Possible Without Permanent Ceasefire Deal
In a significant development that could reshape the dynamics of ceasefire negotiations, Hamas has declared that it will not accept any interim truce with Israel unless it is part of a comprehensive agreement guaranteeing a permanent ceasefire. The statement, made by senior Hamas officials on Thursday, signals a hardening of the group’s stance and poses new challenges for international mediators trying to bring an end to the months-long conflict in Gaza.
The Islamist group, which governs the Gaza Strip, emphasized that it is unwilling to enter into any temporary or phased ceasefire arrangement unless it includes binding commitments to a complete cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the lifting of the 17-year blockade imposed on Gaza. According to a Hamas spokesperson, “There will be no partial or temporary truce. Only a permanent ceasefire that ends the aggression and siege will be acceptable.”
This declaration complicates efforts by mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, who have been promoting a three-phase plan. The proposed deal includes an initial six-week truce, the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, and negotiations on a long-term resolution. While this plan had raised hopes of a breakthrough, Hamas’s rejection of a temporary arrangement could stall progress.
Hamas’s position reflects growing frustration with what it sees as insincere or incomplete proposals that fail to address the underlying causes of the conflict. The group argues that previous short-term truces have only allowed Israel to regroup and continue military operations without any real concessions. A permanent ceasefire, according to Hamas, must come with a clear roadmap for ending the occupation, rebuilding Gaza, and securing Palestinian rights.
On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained a firm line, stating that Israel will continue its military campaign until Hamas is “eliminated” and its threat neutralized. Israeli officials have expressed skepticism about any ceasefire that leaves Hamas in power or capable of rearming. They insist that the military offensive is necessary to prevent future attacks, particularly after the October 7 assault by Hamas that killed over 1,000 people in Israel.
The impasse highlights the deep divide between the two parties. Hamas demands guarantees for Gaza’s recovery and long-term security for Palestinians, while Israel prioritizes its own security and the dismantling of Hamas’s infrastructure. The absence of mutual trust, coupled with differing end goals, continues to undermine diplomatic efforts.
The international community, meanwhile, is growing increasingly alarmed by the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza. More than 30,000 people have been killed, tens of thousands injured, and over half the population displaced. Aid groups warn of famine, disease, and a total collapse of basic services unless hostilities end soon.
As talks continue, the path to peace remains fraught with obstacles. Hamas’s insistence on a permanent ceasefire as a precondition, and Israel’s refusal to halt its offensive without neutralizing Hamas, set the stage for continued conflict unless a bold diplomatic breakthrough is achieved.