Hamas says it ‘positively’ views Gaza ceasefire proposal set out by Biden
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Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said it had a positive view of the ceasefire proposal announced by US President Joe Biden.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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GAZA – Palestinian Islamist group Hamas on May 31 said it had a positive view of the contents of a three-phase ceasefire proposal
“Hamas confirms its readiness to deal positively and in a constructive manner with any proposal that is based on the permanent ceasefire and the full withdrawal (of Israeli forces) from the Gaza Strip, the reconstruction (of Gaza), and the return of the displaced to their places, along with the fulfilment of a genuine prisoner swop deal if the occupation clearly announces commitment to such deal,” the group said in a statement.
Hamas’ position signals a change in attitude from the group, which in recent months had accused the US of siding with Israel and obstructing attempts for a ceasefire.
“Hamas sees Biden’s position now more focused on pressuring Israel to return to negotiations with a different attitude, or they (Israel) could risk clashing with the Americans,” a Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts told Reuters.
Rifts between Mr Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over red lines in Gaza have set up a potential showdown between the two leaders, raising questions about whether the US might restrict military aid if Israel continues its offensive in the now-devastated enclave.
Mr Netanyahu’s office said Israel had authorised negotiators to present a Gaza truce deal after Mr Biden revealed details of the ceasefire plan.
The Palestinian health authorities estimate more than 36,280 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel attacked the enclave in response to an Oct 7 Hamas assault in southern Israel. The Hamas attack killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies. REUTERS
