Hamas: Blinken Ceasefire Remarks Attempt to Acquit Israel

Abu Zuhri also stated the group was still studying the recent ceasefire offer.

Blinken claimed earlier on Wednesday that the only reason a deal wouldn't be achieved is because of Hamas, despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying on Tuesday that he will not agree to end the war, a key demand by the group. 

Hamas has repeatedly stressed it will not sign off on any ceasefire deal that does not guarantee a permanent end to Israel's assault on Gaza.

Khalil Al-Hayya, a member of the group’s political bureau, said on Monday Hamas “is serious about releasing Israeli captives within the framework of an agreement” that also ensures the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.

He told Al-Jazeera Arabic in a televised interview that Hamas will not accept a truce without a permanent ceasefire and a complete halt of Israel’s military onslaught on the Gaza Strip.

Talks on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have been in limbo with the two sides showing few signs that they are ready to compromise on their demands.

The Israeli bombardment has killed more than 34,500 people – mainly women and children – since the current conflict started in October 2023.