Hamas Refutes Claims of Stalled Talks on Prisoner Exchange
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Synopsis
On March 22, Hamas denied reports of halting discussions concerning a prisoner exchange with Israel, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to negotiations. They are reviewing proposals from mediators aimed at achieving a resolution that includes a ceasefire and prisoner releases amidst escalating conflict in Gaza.
Key Takeaways
- Hamas denies halting talks on prisoner exchange.
- Israeli attacks on Gaza have intensified.
- Negotiations are ongoing with mediators.
- Hamas is reviewing proposals for a ceasefire.
- Death toll in Gaza continues to rise.
Gaza, March 22 (NationPress) Hamas has dismissed a report from the media asserting that it had ceased discussions regarding a prisoner exchange arrangement with Israel.
“We categorically reject the claims made by the Israeli publication Yedioth Ahronoth about our suspension of talks related to the prisoner exchange agreement with Israel,” the group stated in an official press release.
Hamas reaffirmed that the prisoner exchange deal “continues to be the focal point of negotiations and that it is diligently engaging with mediators with utmost seriousness and responsibility.”
The organization mentioned it is evaluating a proposal from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff along with various suggestions aimed at facilitating a prisoner-hostage exchange that would ensure the release of prisoners, conclude the conflict, and prompt Israeli withdrawal, as reported by Xinhua.
An insider from Hamas revealed to Xinhua on Thursday that the movement is contemplating a suggestion conveyed by mediators to cease the Israeli military actions in Gaza and to recommence the enforcement of the initial ceasefire and the prisoner-hostage exchange agreement.
The source, who requested anonymity, stated that discussions are ongoing to iron out the specifics, but did not disclose additional details regarding the proposal's conditions.
Previously, on Friday, the Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, citing anonymous sources, claimed that Hamas had suspended all discussions concerning a prisoner exchange deal due to Israel's renewed extensive attacks on Gaza starting Tuesday, which resulted in over 590 fatalities.
Israel resumed its bombardment of Gaza on Tuesday following the breakdown of a ceasefire that had initiated on January 19. The Hamas-controlled media office in Gaza reported on Thursday that the death toll from the renewed Israeli assaults has climbed to 591, with 1,042 individuals injured.
