Negotiations between Hamas and Israel, mediated indirectly, have reportedly reached an impasse, as disclosed by a Hamas insider.
As per Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, the source affirmed, “The opposition (Hamas) remains resolute in its stance, firmly opposing any deviation from the fundamental principles established in previous negotiations.”
“The lack of substantial response from Arab and international quarters concerning the ongoing violations of human rights and atrocities in northern and central Gaza, including the vicinity of Shifa Hospital, has compelled the occupying authority to scale back the terms it brings to the negotiation table.”
Furthermore, the source elaborated, “Upon their return to Doha, the heads of the Israeli negotiating team, Mossad chief David Barnea, and Nitzan Alon, tabled propositions that signaled a departure from previously asserted positions, all of which were met with opposition by Hamas.”
“Hamas maintains a steadfast position, categorically rejecting Tel Aviv’s proposed framework, which it perceives as tantamount to capitulation.”
The source continued, “During the recent talks in Doha, the Israeli negotiators introduced a precondition for the initial phase of the anticipated ceasefire, slated to span six weeks – the repatriation of the remains of officer Hadar Goldin and soldier Oron Shaul by Hamas.”
This precondition, according to the source, underscores “Hamas’s unwavering insistence on the release of prisoners re-apprehended by Israel subsequent to their initial release in the Shalit prisoner exchange.”
Since the 2014 Operation Protective Edge, Hamas has held the remains of IDF soldiers Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul.
Moreover, there are concerns that Hamas may also be detaining two Israeli civilians who went missing in Gaza – Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed.
{Matzav.com Israel}
