Gaza/Washington: In a major setback to peace efforts in the Middle East, Hamas has officially rejected a 20-point ceasefire proposal put forward by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Although initially accepted by Hamas’s political leadership, the group’s military commander, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, has firmly opposed the plan, asserting that the conflict will continue until Palestine is recognized as a sovereign state.
Background: The Ceasefire Proposal
Trump's plan was presented as a comprehensive roadmap to end the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with a defined deadline and staged peace measures. The political wing of Hamas initially agreed to consider the terms, but the group’s military faction — particularly the al-Qassam Brigades, led by Haddad — later withdrew support.
Haddad's Firm Stand: “No Peace Without a Nation”
According to reports from BBC and Arab News, Haddad, who is believed to control both Hamas’s military strategy and the fate of 48 hostages, rejected the deal outright. In a message to Hamas negotiators based in Qatar, he reportedly stated:
“Without the guarantee of a Palestinian nation, any agreement is meaningless.”
This public stance has significantly impacted ongoing diplomatic backchannel efforts.
Trump’s Warning and Israel’s Position
Trump issued a strong response to the rejection, warning that “a very tragic end” awaits Hamas if it continues to defy peace proposals. On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has intensified his rhetoric, warning that anyone remaining in Gaza City may be treated as a combatant or terrorist, indicating a likely escalation in military operations.
Global Reactions and Protests
The ceasefire plan has sparked global protests in countries such as Turkey, South Africa, and across Europe, where critics argue the proposal was crafted without Palestinian input. Many see the plan as favoring U.S. and Israeli interests, which, according to analysts, is a key reason behind Hamas's outright rejection.
What This Means for Peace in the Region
The failed proposal and rising tensions between Hamas and the U.S. have further diminished the already fragile prospects for peace in the region. With no clear roadmap toward Palestinian statehood, the possibility of a sustainable resolution appears distant.
Conclusion
The rejection of Trump’s ceasefire plan by Hamas underscores the deep-rooted complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Without addressing the core political demands, particularly the call for a recognized Palestinian state, any temporary truce is likely to be short-lived. As regional instability grows, the international community faces renewed pressure to facilitate a more inclusive and balanced peace process in the Middle East.
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