Hamas Claims Israel Rejected Full Captive Release Offer
Qassam Brigades Spokesperson Accuses Netanyahu of Prioritizing War Over Hostages Amid Stalled Talks
The armed wing of Hamas has stated that it proposed a comprehensive deal for the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza, an offer allegedly rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government. The announcement came as indirect negotiations in Qatar reportedly made no headway.
Hamas Alleges Israeli Rejection of Deal
In a rare video address, Abu Obaida, the official spokesperson for the Qassam Brigades, asserted that Israel’s leadership is unwilling to prioritize the fate of its captured citizens. He accused Netanyahu and his ministers of dismissing Hamas’s proposal, suggesting they are preparing the public for the possibility of the hostages’ deaths.
“War criminal Netanyahu and his ministers rejected our offer. It became clear they are not interested in the fate of their soldiers.”
—Abu Obaida, Spokesperson for Qassam Brigades
Abu Obaida warned that if Israel disengages from the current talks, Hamas would no longer guarantee adherence to previous frameworks involving partial exchanges or the release of ten prisoners. This statement intensifies the deadlock in efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release.
Families Urge Action Amidst Talks Collapse Fears
Sources recently revealed that families of Israeli captives contacted Hamas directly through an intermediary. These families reportedly feared that Prime Minister Netanyahu was deliberately undermining potential ceasefire agreements. A senior Hamas official reportedly assured the representative that the group remains committed to a deal, but cited “intransigent Israeli positions” as the primary obstacle.
According to these sources, Hamas indicated it had fulfilled its obligations under the initial phase of a prior ceasefire. They reiterated their seriousness about ending the war and establishing lasting calm. Hamas asserted that Israel, conversely, has maintained a stance focused on continued conflict, destruction in Gaza, and perpetuating civilian suffering and casualties.
Stalemate Persists Over Key Negotiation Points
Current ceasefire negotiations in Doha, Qatar, have reportedly stalled over critical issues. Reports suggest key sticking points include the scope of an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza during a proposed 60-day truce and the mechanisms for aid distribution within the besieged territory.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, the number of Palestinians killed in Gaza has surpassed 35,000 since the conflict began, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health as of May 2024, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation. The US has reportedly suggested deferring discussions on the withdrawal and aid distribution, focusing instead on prisoner exchange lists.
Hamas Cites Military Operations, Criticizes Arab Leaders
In his video message, Abu Obaida also claimed Qassam fighters inflicted significant casualties on Israeli soldiers during recent operations, including an initiative named “Stones of David.” Israeli media reports indicate over 890 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the October 7th attacks that initiated the current conflict.
The Qassam Brigades spokesperson extended gratitude to global supporters of the Palestinian cause. He also strongly criticized Arab leaders for their perceived inaction, suggesting their silence emboldened Israel’s actions in Gaza. Abu Obaida emphasized a collective responsibility to act, stating, Everyone who can act, according to their ability and influence, must do so.
