Israel says Hamas undermining ceasefire talks, Hamas denies rejection

1/6/2025 7:23

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Saturday that Israel has accepted an updated U.S.-mediated proposal for a hostage release deal, while accusing Hamas of stalling progress by rejecting the framework.



"Hamas' response is unacceptable and brings the situation backward," the statement read, citing U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. "Israel will continue its action for the return of our hostages and the defeat of Hamas."



Hamas, however, said it had submitted a "positive" response to the U.S.-backed plan but sought amendments, including a demand for a longer-term ceasefire.



Witkoff, writing on social media platform X, described Hamas' reply as "totally unacceptable" and urged the group to embrace the framework to pave the way for proximity talks that he said could begin as early as next week.