Hamas has submitted its formal response to a proposed ceasefire in Gaza, demanding Israel’s full military withdrawal, unrestricted humanitarian access, and binding international guarantees for a sustained truce.

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Hamas’s proposal, delivered to international mediators after extensive internal consultations, outlines three non-negotiable demands: uninterrupted humanitarian aid, the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and enforceable international guarantees to uphold and extend the ceasefire.

The first condition calls for the safe and continuous delivery of food, medicine, and fuel, referencing the humanitarian protocol of January 19, 2025. Hamas emphasizes that aid must flow without conditions or interference, in line with international humanitarian law.

The second clause reiterates Hamas’s demand for the total withdrawal of Israeli forces. Even a minimal military presence, the group argues, would signify the ongoing occupation of Gaza and is therefore unacceptable.

The third demand stresses the need for enforceable international guarantees to prolong the ceasefire beyond the initial 60 days. Hamas also seeks a framework for long-term negotiations covering reconstruction, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced Palestinians.

If accepted, these conditions would mark the first time since the war began that Palestinians could reenter Gaza through the Rafah crossing, a critical humanitarian and strategic point.

Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet Thursday in Rome with Qatari and Israeli officials, in a renewed push to advance prisoner swap talks. Israeli sources cited by Channel 14 suggested a preliminary deal could be reached within days.

Since Israel launched its military offensive in October 2023, Gaza has suffered unprecedented devastation. More than 59,000 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have been killed, and over 143,000 injured. Medical infrastructure has collapsed, hundreds of thousands have been displaced, and entire neighborhoods lie in ruins. International organizations continue to describe the situation as a deliberately inflicted humanitarian catastrophe.

As negotiations continue, Hamas’s response signals a firm position on core demands. Whether talks can deliver a sustainable truce will depend on international willingness to enforce meaningful guarantees and address the root causes of the conflict.

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