(Editor's note: Image shows graphic content) A Palestinian boy, seriously injured in an Israeli attack on the Nusirat refugee camp, receives treatment at Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, on March 5, 2024. (Photo by Ashraf Amra/Anatolu via Getty Images)
The group said Wednesday that Hamas would “continue negotiations” to reach a cease-fire in Gaza, showing “flexibility” in talks as it accused Israel of evading “obligations of the treaty” under discussion.
In a statement, Hamas reiterated its demand for a permanent ceasefire, the return of displaced people, Israel's withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and aid to the people of Gaza.
It comes after an Israeli delegation, including Mossad director David Barnia, held talks with CIA director Bill Burns and Egyptian and Qatari negotiators in Paris late last month. Qatar and Egypt act as intermediaries between Hamas and Israel and do not speak directly to each other.
White House National Security Adviser Jack Sullivan recently told CNN that negotiators have reached an “understanding” about the general outlines of a possible deal to release hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.
Speaking to CBS's Face the Nation on February 25, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted that Israel wants to free the remaining hostages in Gaza, adding, “We're all working towards that. We want it. I love you.”
He said Hamas' “insane” demands were delaying the deal.
