DOHA, (PIC)
Khalil al-Hayya, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, has reiterated that Hamas will not accept a truce without a permanent ceasefire and a complete halt to Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip.
“We are leading serious talks, and among our demands is a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza,” al-Hayya told Al Jazeera Arabic in a televised interview.
Hamas is serious about releasing Israeli captives within the framework of an agreement that also ensures the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, he said.
He further pointed out that the Movement has not closed the door on negotiations. Rather, Hamas is open to an exchange of ideas and suggestions to reach the stated objective.
“Hamas turned in its response to the latest proposal that included a US amendment on April 13 and is still waiting for a reply from Israel and the mediating parties.”
He also said that the sticking point that has stalled negotiations is Israel’s refusal to agree to a permanent ceasefire.
Hamas has already compromised on several issues but cannot agree to any exchange that does not include a lasting ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, he concluded.
