Hamas announced on Saturday morning (31 May, local time) that it intends to issue a formal response later in the day regarding a ceasefire proposal put forward by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The proposal aims to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and potentially pave the way for a broader resolution.
However, Hamas has raised serious concerns about the framework of the deal. The group stated that the current proposal fails to incorporate key understandings it had previously communicated to mediators involved in the negotiations.
According to Hamas, one of the most critical shortcomings of the proposal is its lack of any near-term commitment to ending the war. The group emphasized that the deal does not include provisions for a partial or gradual cessation of hostilities.
While Hamas has not officially rejected the proposal, its statements suggest significant dissatisfaction with its contents. The group’s upcoming response will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire process can move forward or faces another impasse.
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Hamas to issue response to Witkoff’s ceasefire proposal later on Saturday
