Hamas has signaled readiness to settle for a decades-long truce with Israel in Gaza. Nevertheless, it has categorically ruled out disarming. A Hamas senior leader told that the group would consider accepting a five-to-seven-year truce but not disarm. Ceasefire talks resumed in Cairo, where Hamas pressed for mediators’ support.
The faction calls for the end of the war, rebuilding Gaza, the release of Palestinian detainees, and the release of all the hostages. But Israel holds firm on its central demands, raising doubts about the prospects of a breakthrough. Gaza, meanwhile, keeps sustaining heavy casualties from continued Israeli attacks.
Hamas Offers Decades-Long Truce
Taher Al-Nono, the group’s media advisor, conveyed Hamas’ message. He added Hamas was “open to any serious overtures to finish the war” and had no objection to a long-term ceasefire. Hamas might agree to a five-to-seven-year truce, according to sources close to the talks. The group requires that Israel halt its offensive, rebuild Gaza, and release Palestinian prisoners and Israeli hostages in exchange.
This proposal indicates one of Hamas’ strongest steps toward an extended ceasefire, but it will not give up armed struggle.
Hamas Will Not Surrender Weapons
Even as it makes its truce proposal, Hamas insists on drawing a red line on disarmament. “The resistance weapon is not negotiable and will be in our hands as long as the occupation is present,” declared Nono.
Israel insists, though, on the total demilitarization of Gaza. Otherwise, Israeli politicians, such as Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, see no possibility of victory. “The war could end tomorrow if Hamas released the remaining 59 hostages and laid down its weapons,” Haskel stated.
War Rages On as Talks Continue
Israel intensified strikes in Gaza on March 18 after the ceasefire in January disintegrated. Israeli forces advance further, forcing hundreds of thousands out and cutting off supplies routes. The army has also established a buffer zone, capturing large swaths of the strip.
Over 2,000 Palestinians, largely civilians, have died since then, Gaza health authorities reported. About 24 hostages are believed to be still alive.
The conflict escalated following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages being taken to Gaza. Since then, a total of 51,400 Palestinians have died in Israeli bombardments, according to local authorities.
Pressure Mounts on Mediators
The new Hamas offer places renewed pressure on Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. The mediators now have to determine whether they will urge Israel to sign off on a ceasefire without complete disarmament. Most worry that an agreement without disarmament may only postpone more violence instead of bringing permanent peace.
While negotiations drag on in Cairo, the world is watching. Gaza’s future, and the stability of the region, are at stake.
