Calling for action, Hamas urged Gaza mediators to implement US President Joe Biden’s truce plan rather than engaging in further talks, as Palestinians sought refuge from a new Israeli military operation.
Hamas, whose attack on Israel in October 7 initiated the conflict, made the statement following one of the deadliest reported Israeli strikes on Gaza Strip in over 10 months of conflict.
International mediators had called for Israel and Hamas to resume discussions for a long-awaited truce and hostage-release agreement after the escalation of violence in Gaza and the targeted killings of Iran-aligned militant leaders raised concerns about a broader conflict.
Israel, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, faced accusations of extending the conflict for political advantages. Israel has accepted an invitation from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt for talks scheduled for Thursday.
Hamas insisted on the implementation of Biden’s truce plan outlined on May 31 and later endorsed by the UN Security Council, rejecting further negotiations or new proposals.
The plan outlined by Biden was termed as a three-phase “roadmap to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.” However, mediation efforts since then have failed to yield an agreement.
In response to escalating tensions, Hamas appointed Yahya Sinwar as the new Gaza chief following the assassination of political leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31. The situation prompted intense diplomatic efforts to prevent a larger-scale conflict in the Middle East.
In Khan Yunis, hundreds of Palestinians evacuated northern neighborhoods after Israel issued fresh orders, highlighting the continued displacement and upheaval caused by military incursions.
Israel’s military strike on a school housing displaced Palestinians drew international condemnation, with conflicting reports about the casualties and identities of the victims, adding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the conflict continues, Biden’s proposed roadmap aims to achieve a lasting ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, amid growing concerns about the ongoing violence and its impact on civilian populations.
The socioeconomic toll of the conflict has forced thousands of Palestinians to flee their homes in search of safety, underscoring the urgent need for a sustainable truce and comprehensive peace plan in the region.
Source: AFP.