Date: May 30, 2025
By: International News Desk
Gaza City — The Palestinian militant group Hamas has formally rejected a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza, a deal that had recently gained the backing of both the United States and Israel. The proposal, announced earlier this week, aimed to bring a temporary halt to the months-long conflict that has devastated the region and left thousands dead or displaced.
In a televised address Thursday night, a senior Hamas political official called the deal “a continuation of aggression by other means” and accused the U.S. of “manipulating ceasefire terms to serve Israeli interests.”
“This is not a true ceasefire. It is a calculated attempt to weaken the resistance while allowing the occupation to regroup,” said the official, speaking from Doha, where key Hamas leaders are based.
The U.S. Secretary of State had earlier confirmed that Israel had agreed to the deal and was waiting for Hamas’s official response. The terms reportedly included a six-week cessation of hostilities, the phased release of hostages held by Hamas, and increased humanitarian access to Gaza.
Despite growing international pressure, including calls from the UN and European Union for an immediate truce, Hamas’s rejection marks a significant setback in diplomatic efforts to halt the violence.
📌 Ceasefire Proposal Highlights
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Duration: 6-week initial pause in hostilities
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Hostage Release: Gradual release of Israeli and foreign hostages held in Gaza
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Humanitarian Aid: Expanded entry of aid trucks, fuel, and medical supplies via Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings
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Negotiations: Commitment to pursue a permanent ceasefire after the initial pause
🔥 Conflict Background
The latest Gaza war erupted in October 2024 following a surprise Hamas attack on southern Israel that killed over 1,200 people, prompting massive Israeli retaliation. Since then, the Israeli military campaign has destroyed large parts of Gaza, with health officials in the enclave estimating over 35,000 deaths, the majority believed to be civilians.
In Israel, the public remains deeply divided. Some support a continued military push to eliminate Hamas, while others are calling for a negotiated end to the fighting, especially to secure the return of hostages.
🌍 Global Reactions
United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres expressed disappointment over the rejection, saying, "Gaza cannot endure more bloodshed. Both parties must return to the negotiating table."
United States: White House officials reiterated that the deal is still on the table. "The door remains open, and we urge Hamas to reconsider for the sake of the Palestinian people," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
Israel: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a brief statement saying Israel “remains committed to restoring peace and returning hostages” but will “take all necessary military actions” if Hamas continues attacks.
🧭 What's Next?
Analysts say Hamas’s rejection could lead to a renewed escalation in fighting, with Israel likely to intensify its military operations in northern and central Gaza. Meanwhile, mediators from Egypt and Qatar are reportedly working behind the scenes to salvage the truce framework.
For now, the people of Gaza remain caught in the middle, facing what the UN describes as one of the worst humanitarian crises of the 21st century.
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