Haniyeh Firm on Truce Despite Sons’ Deaths

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh declared that the loss of his three sons in an Israeli air strike would not influence ongoing truce negotiations in Gaza, despite continuous bombardments. Israel confirmed the deaths amid faltering ceasefire talks in Cairo. Haniyeh, in an interview with Al Jazeera, dismissed the idea that such actions would alter Hamas’s stance in negotiations.

U.S. President Joe Biden has urged Hamas to accept the latest truce proposal, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Concurrently, international pressure mounts on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a truce, enhance aid distribution, and cancel any plans for an invasion of Rafah.

Despite the ceasefire appeals, Israel conducted further strikes in Gaza, specifically targeting the south. The conflict, initiated by a Hamas attack on October 7, has led to significant casualties on both sides and extensive discussions mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar since Sunday.

The proposed truce would suspend hostilities for six weeks and facilitate an exchange involving about 40 hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Biden highlighted the urgent need for Hamas to respond to the truce proposal amid increasing global condemnation of Israel’s management of the war and the restrictive flow of aid into Gaza.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticized Israel’s disproportionate actions, warning of potential regional destabilization. Some Western nations are considering recognizing a Palestinian state as a step toward broader peace negotiations.

Israeli officials claim military victory over Hamas but remain committed to continuing operations, including potential actions in Rafah, despite international concerns over civilian safety. The U.S. has expressed strong opposition to an attack on Rafah, emphasizing the negative implications for both civilians and regional security.

In response to recent developments, the U.S. has reaffirmed its staunch support for Israel’s security amidst escalating tensions with Iran, following threats from Tehran over an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus. In retaliation, Iran has issued stern warnings against Israel, promising repercussions, which has led to heightened security measures and international caution, including flight suspensions by Lufthansa due to the volatile situation in the Middle East.