C.I.A. Director Blames Hamas for Stalled Cease-Fire Negotiations
In a recent development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, negotiations for a cease-fire and the release of Israeli hostages have hit a roadblock. The latest proposal put forth by Israel, Qatar, and Egypt was rejected by Hamas, according to C.I.A. Director William J. Burns.
The proposal, described as “far-reaching” by Mr. Burns, included an offer to allow some Gazans to return to the northern part of the enclave, a key demand from Hamas. However, Hamas has not accepted the proposal, leading to a lack of progress in the talks.
Mr. Burns expressed his disappointment at Hamas’s negative reaction, stating that it is hindering innocent civilians in Gaza from receiving the humanitarian relief they desperately need. Mossad, the Israeli intelligence service, also expressed regret over Hamas’s rejection, arguing that it shows the group’s lack of interest in reaching a deal.
According to anonymous American officials, Hamas has indicated that they do not have enough women and civilian hostages to meet Israel’s criteria for the release of 40 hostages over six weeks. A senior Hamas official accused Israel of seeking to free captive soldiers at a lower price than demanded by the group.
In response, Hamas has proposed releasing fewer than 20 living hostages as part of an initial six-week phase cease-fire deal. The group is insisting on a narrow definition limited to the elderly and women, while Israel had hoped to see wounded and ill hostages freed.
Mr. Burns, who helped guide talks that led to the release of hostages in the past, expressed uncertainty about the current negotiations’ success. He also reiterated the Biden administration’s desire for Israel not to escalate its conflict with Iran, following a failed Iranian attack last weekend.
As the situation continues to unfold, Mr. Burns emphasized the importance of de-escalation and highlighted the Israeli military’s superiority in dealing with threats. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached to bring peace to the region.
