Gaza City – A senior Hamas official has stated that threats and ultimatums hold no value in ceasefire negotiations, emphasizing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through genuine diplomatic efforts. The remarks come amid ongoing international efforts to broker a truce in the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

Diplomatic Standoff

The comments were made in response to recent warnings from Israeli officials who suggested that military action could intensify if Hamas does not agree to certain conditions. According to the Hamas representative, such threats undermine the peace process and create further obstacles to negotiations.

“Ceasefires should be built on mutual agreements and respect, not coercion or intimidation,” the Hamas official stated. “Any attempt to force a deal through threats will only prolong the suffering of civilians on both sides.”

International Mediation Efforts

The United Nations, Egypt, and Qatar have been actively engaged in mediating discussions between Hamas and Israel, seeking to establish a long-term ceasefire. However, diplomatic sources indicate that significant hurdles remain, including demands regarding security guarantees, humanitarian aid access, and the release of detainees.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has reiterated the need for all parties to prioritize humanitarian concerns, warning that escalating tensions could lead to further regional instability.

Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies

As ceasefire talks continue, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened. Reports from aid organizations highlight severe shortages of medical supplies, food, and clean water, with thousands of civilians displaced by ongoing hostilities.

International humanitarian groups have called for immediate measures to ensure the safe delivery of aid, urging all parties to respect humanitarian corridors and facilitate relief efforts.

Next Steps in the Negotiations

Despite challenges, mediators remain cautiously optimistic that progress can be made in the coming days. Diplomatic sources suggest that backchannel discussions are ongoing to bridge differences between the conflicting parties.

For now, the emphasis remains on reducing hostilities and creating a framework for a lasting peace. Observers note that while threats may play a role in political posturing, they do little to advance the cause of sustainable peace.