Hamas Leader Accuses Netanyahu of Undermining Gaza Truce Efforts

Hamas's political chief, Ismail Haniyeh, has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing ongoing mediation efforts aimed at achieving a truce and a hostage exchange in Gaza.

Haniyeh, based in Qatar, stated that Netanyahu is intent on creating continual excuses to prolong aggression, expand the conflict, and hinder the progress made through various mediators and parties.

Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediators convened with a Hamas delegation in Cairo on Saturday, continuing efforts to end the nearly seven-month-long devastating war, which has sparked global protests.

A senior Hamas source, close to the negotiations, indicated that there would be further talks on Sunday.

Negotiators have proposed an initial 40-day ceasefire and a hostage exchange for Palestinian prisoners as part of the peace efforts.

Haniyeh emphasized that Hamas approached the talks with seriousness and optimism but questioned the significance of an agreement if a ceasefire is not achieved first.

Netanyahu had previously dismissed Hamas's call to end the war, stating that Israel cannot allow Hamas to regain control of Gaza, rebuild its military infrastructure, and pose a threat to Israeli citizens.

Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been actively mediating between Israel and Hamas for months.

Haniyeh criticized the US for supporting Israel, stating that the US should halt its support for Israel instead of supplying it with destructive weapons.

He reiterated Hamas's eagerness to reach a comprehensive agreement, ending the aggression, ensuring Israeli withdrawal, and achieving a significant prisoner exchange deal.