Hamas refuses talks unless based on July 2 ceasefire proposal: Source

The official told a Lebanese news agency that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has introduced new conditions that undermine the negotiation process.

The official, speaking on Wednesday, clarified that Hamas rejects the current framework for negotiations, emphasizing that the movement demands the implementation of the ceasefire agreement approved on July 2, rather than engaging in new rounds of talks. This stance was reiterated by a Hamas source on Tuesday, who told Reuters that the movement's priority is the enforcement of the July agreement, not further discussions.

Contrary to reports from CNN, the source denied that Hamas representatives were scheduled to attend the meetings in Doha, labeling such claims as "incorrect." The source further stated, "What we [Hamas] need is implementation, not more talks," consistent with a previous statement issued by the movement.

Ahmad Abdel Hadi, a Hamas representative, accused Netanyahu of using deceit and stalling tactics, suggesting that the Israeli leader is attempting to delay while the Axis of Resistance prepares to retaliate for the assassinations of Hamas leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Fouad Shokor. Abdel Hadi asserted that Hamas will not engage in negotiations that merely provide cover for Netanyahu's government, which he described as "extremist."

He added that the recent assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and the Al-Tabieen school massacre in Gaza City signal Netanyahu's intent to escalate the conflict. Abdel Hadi stressed that Hamas views the upcoming negotiations as unproductive if they do not build on the progress made by the July 2 proposal.

Hamas remains open to detailed discussions, but only if the negotiators adhere to the framework established in the July 2 paper, Abdel Hadi emphasized. (ILKHA)