DaysofPal – The spokesperson for the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), Jihad Taha, dismissed recent remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his readiness to reach a ceasefire agreement, describing them as “political manoeuvring” driven by internal political decline and mounting international pressure.
In a press statement issued Wednesday, Taha asserted that Netanyahu is “projecting a false image of political flexibility” while simultaneously insisting on conditions that are categorically unacceptable. “The resistance will not relinquish its weapons or accept the forced removal of its leaders from the Gaza Strip,” he said.
Taha emphasized that Hamas rejects all attempts to bypass or undermine core national principles. Regarding the fate of senior leaders, including Muhammad Sinwar, he clarified that any decision on such matters stems from the resistance itself, not from external demands. “No official statement has been issued on this,” he added.
He went on to praise recent European positions condemning Israel’s aggression, particularly following the targeting of a diplomatic delegation in the Jenin refugee camp. Taha expressed Hamas’ appreciation for all international voices that “reveal the true face of the occupation and its criminal practices.”
Since 7 October 2023, the Israeli occupation—backed by the United States—has been carrying out what Hamas and other observers describe as acts of genocide in Gaza. According to official sources, over 173,000 Palestinians have been killed or wounded, the majority of them women and children, with more than 11,000 still missing.
Hamas reiterated its willingness to engage in comprehensive negotiations to release Israeli captives “in one batch” in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Netanyahu—who is under investigation by the International Criminal Court—has repeatedly evaded serious negotiations, presenting new preconditions such as the disarmament of Hamas, which the movement firmly rejects as long as the occupation continues.
Opposition figures and families of Israeli captives have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war to appease the far-right elements in his government and to serve his personal political agenda, particularly his efforts to remain in power.
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