US Dismisses Hamas Demands Amidst Fragile Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

Negotiations for extending the Gaza ceasefire have stalled as the US criticizes Hamas for making unrealistic demands, complicating efforts to resolve ongoing hostilities that have resulted in widespread devastation.

Talks aimed at extending the ceasefire in Gaza have hit an impasse as a Palestinian official announced that no agreement has been reached, prompting strong rebuke from the US government regarding Hamas' demands. As discussions unfolded in Qatar, the US labeled these demands as "entirely impractical," indicating a significant rift between Israelis and Hamas regarding the ongoing negotiations.

The initial phase of the temporary truce, which began on 1 March, has been challenging, and while the US proposed to extend this truce until mid-April—coupled with discussions surrounding further exchanges of hostages—the response from Hamas has not been favorable. An unnamed official representing the Palestinian side revealed that both Israel and Hamas remain at odds over critical elements outlined by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.

Although there has been no official comment from Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office indicated that he would receive updates from their negotiating team. The White House criticized Hamas' refusal to agree to the proposals, hinting that the group is underestimating the urgency of the situation. "Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side," a spokesperson stated, cautioning that there would be repercussions should the deadline pass without resolution.

In a statement reported by the BBC, Hamas confirmed a deadlock in negotiations, asserting their commitment to an agreement while accusing Israel of "manipulation." Tensions are exacerbated as Israel continues to halt aid, electricity, and resources to Gaza, further straining the population of over 2 million who are already suffering from severe shortages.

The ceasefire process, which began after 15 months of conflict, involves multiple stages, including the return of hostages. In the first stage, Hamas returned 25 living hostages and the remains of others, while Israel released approximately 1,800 Palestinians. However, the next phase is currently stalled due to disagreements over the number of remaining hostages and the timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

The humanitarian situation remains dire, as approximately 70% of buildings in Gaza have been either damaged or destroyed, with critical infrastructure like healthcare and sanitation in disarray. Estimates indicate that more than 48,520 deaths have occurred during the conflict, predominantly among civilians, and most of the populace has been displaced multiple times.

As the standoff continues, the future of the ceasefire and the prospects for peace remain uncertain amid escalating tensions and the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza.