Hamas Responds to Gaza Cease-fire Proposal

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Jun 12, 2024

Above: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, meets with families of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas near his hotel during his visit to the country on June 11, 2024 in Tel Aviv, Israel. Image copyright: Amir Levy/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Imagesstory last updated Jun 13

The Facts

Hamas on Tuesday delivered its response to a cease-fire proposal announced last month by US Pres. Joe Biden. The group said it was ready to "deal positively" with negotiations but that Israel must still agree to a permanent cease-fire.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that some of Hamas' proposed changes were unworkable but that mediators were determined to close the gaps. He also said that some of Hamas' conditions sought to amend terms that it had previously accepted.

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

A guaranteed end to the war will ensure increased humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave, preserve Israel's security, and create a better "day after" in Gaza without Hamas in power. It is unfortunate that Hamas did not respond with a resounding "yes" to this thoughtful proposal, but the US will continue to work toward closing the gaps.

Pro-Israel narrative

The fact that the Biden admin. thinks it's appropriate to try to pressure Israel into allowing Hamas to stay in power in Gaza is deeply disappointing. If Israel does not destroy Hamas, the group will immediately begin planning the next Oct. 7 terrorist attack. Israel must get all of its hostages back and eliminate Hamas.

Jerusalem Post

Pro-Palestine narrative

It should be clear after almost eight months of grinding brutality that Israel's true goal is to destroy Gaza and starve its people. Israel is simply not interested in a permanent cease-fire, as Israeli officials have made clear that once the hostages are returned, they will restart the brutal war on Gaza. The US, aware of Israel's intransigence, refuses to do what is necessary to end the war.