Hamas rejects disarmament in ceasefire proposals from Israel, Egypt

Hamas has decisively rejected an Israeli ceasefire proposal that would require the group to disarm, indicating that the offer lacked commitments to end the conflict or withdraw Israeli forces, which are key demands for Hamas. Senior official Sami Abu Zuhri emphasized that while Hamas is open to proposals that alleviate suffering, it will not agree to disarmament as part of negotiations. The Egyptian proposal also contained disarmament conditions, which Hamas views as unacceptable, asserting that any agreement must prioritize the withdrawal of Israeli forces and a complete halt to hostilities. Additionally, Hamas has signaled a willingness to release hostages if the conflict is ended on terms favorable to them. Experts suggest that while Israel may be open to compromises, the likelihood of a breakthrough agreement remains low as the situation develops. The tensions continue to complicate the prospects for peace as time runs out for hostages.