INVC NEWS
Washington, DC — : Tensions around the Israel-Hamas conflict have deepened as the United States firmly rejected Hamas’ terms for a ceasefire in Gaza. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, made a bold and public declaration on social media, calling Hamas’ conditions “completely unacceptable” and warning that accepting such terms would set back diplomatic progress rather than move it forward.
Hamas Seeks Full Israeli Withdrawal, Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza
As the war in Gaza nears its 20-month mark, the US has introduced a comprehensive ceasefire proposal designed to halt ongoing violence and initiate the release of hostages. While Hamas has expressed openness to talks, its demands include a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, permanent ceasefire, and increased humanitarian aid. Additionally, Hamas has agreed to release 10 living Israeli hostages and return 18 bodies, contingent on the release of a set number of Palestinian prisoners.
The core of Hamas’ proposal was relayed to Qatari and Egyptian mediators, who are playing a central role in brokering a diplomatic solution. Yet the Israeli government, although it has accepted the US framework, remains cautious about the conditional language used by Hamas, which could complicate the agreement.
Trump’s Envoy Slams Hamas Demands on X (Formerly Twitter)
Steve Witkoff, acting on behalf of Trump and widely regarded as his Middle East policy voice, posted on X that Hamas’ response to the U.S.-led ceasefire initiative fails to meet the standards of constructive diplomacy.
“The Hamas response is absolutely not acceptable and only takes us backward,” Witkoff wrote. “They must agree to our framework proposal as the starting point. We’re ready to begin this week.”
Witkoff further emphasized that an initial 60-day ceasefire could be agreed upon immediately, during which half of the live and deceased hostages would be returned to their families. This period, according to Witkoff, could act as a launchpad for broader discussions aimed at ending the war and stabilizing the region.
US Proposal Receives Israeli Green Light
The Israeli government has officially approved the American ceasefire blueprint. Under this framework:
10 living Israeli hostages and 18 deceased hostages will be released by Hamas.
In return, Israel has agreed to release 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life terms.
Additionally, 1,111 Gazan detainees captured during the current war will also be released.
The US aims to use this exchange as a foundation for restoring peace and boosting diplomatic momentum. However, the plan stops short of guaranteeing a permanent truce, which remains a contentious demand from Hamas.
What’s Inside the US Ceasefire Framework?
The proposed US ceasefire plan includes:
Immediate 60-day ceasefire
Initiation of hostages-for-prisoners exchange
Opening humanitarian aid corridors into Gaza
Halt to Israeli offensive operations
Suspension of Hamas’ militant activities
Launch of negotiations aimed at finding a permanent resolution
However, critics argue that without solid guarantees from both sides, the temporary truce could collapse under pressure, particularly if Hamas or Israel resume strikes before diplomatic goals are realized.
Russia, Iran, and Regional Eyes Watching Closely
This standoff and America’s firm position are being closely observed by regional powers including Russia and Iran, who have their own strategic stakes in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Diplomatic sources confirm that any failure in the ceasefire talks could open space for outside influence and proxy conflicts to intensify in the region.
Hamas’ Demands Stir Global Concern
Hamas’ insistence on a full Israeli pullout from Gaza, combined with expectations for permanent peace guarantees, has created global diplomatic friction. While many nations support the humanitarian objectives of a ceasefire, the militant group’s rigid terms are perceived as deal-breakers by the West and Israel alike.
As international negotiators attempt to salvage the deal, Hamas’ current posture is drawing criticism for potentially jeopardizing the lives of hostages, prolonging civilian suffering in Gaza, and undermining future diplomatic frameworks for the region.
Talks May Resume Despite Setbacks
Despite the American rejection of Hamas’ latest terms, hopes remain that the group may return to the negotiating table with revised demands. US officials, backed by Egypt and Qatar, are reportedly working to reframe the proposal in a way that addresses humanitarian concerns while ensuring Israel’s security priorities are not compromised.
For now, the ball is in Hamas’ court, and the world watches whether the group will soften its stance or continue to risk further international isolation.
