Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has obstructed efforts to secure a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and complete a hostage exchange agreement, according to a statement released by Hamas on Monday.
The talks, mediated by the United States, Egypt and Qatar, took place on 15-16 August in Doha but failed to reach a resolution due to Netanyahu’s new conditions, which Hamas claims have jeopardised the negotiations and increased risks for those involved.
Hamas reported that Netanyahu rejected the proposal for a comprehensive withdrawal from Gaza and insisted on maintaining Israeli control over key corridors, including the Netzarim, Rafah and Philadelphia Corridors. These demands, according to Hamas, have stalled progress and placed the lives of hostages in greater danger. “We hold Netanyahu fully responsible for the lives of the hostages and for blocking efforts toward an agreement,” the Hamas statement read.
Hamas officials also criticised the Israeli government’s lack of response to mediators’ proposals, accusing Netanyahu of using the negotiations to buy time for continued military operations. According to Hamas, Israel’s current demands fall short of even those previously supported by the United Nations Security Council and agreed upon by Hamas in July.
