CAIRO/RAMALLAH — The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has firmly denied receiving any ceasefire proposal from former US President Donald Trump, despite widespread media reports suggesting that a plan is being discussed to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The statement came on Saturday as Israeli forces intensified their ground and air assault on Gaza City, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave.

The controversy erupted after Israeli daily Haaretz reported that Hamas had signaled preliminary acceptance of a proposal under which it would release all Israeli hostages in exchange for the freedom of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. According to the report, the plan also calls for a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and includes conditions that would permanently reshape the region's political landscape.

Key provisions allegedly attached to the proposal include the dismantling of Hamas' political authority in Gaza, a commitment from Israel not to annex the territory, and a pledge to allow Palestinians to remain in their homes. These stipulations, if true, represent one of the most significant negotiation frameworks proposed since the outbreak of the current conflict.

However, Hamas leaders insist that no such proposal has been formally shared with them. "Hamas has not been presented with any plan," a senior Hamas official, speaking anonymously, told Reuters. The denial casts doubt on the credibility of the reported negotiations and highlights the complexity of achieving a breakthrough.

Meanwhile, Trump, speaking to reporters on Friday, hinted at progress by saying, "It's looking like we have a deal on Gaza," but declined to share any specific details or timeline. Israel has also remained silent, offering no official comment on the supposed initiative.

The conflicting reports underline deep mistrust between the parties and the fragility of any potential peace effort. As fighting intensifies, the people of Gaza continue to endure severe hardship, with hopes for a diplomatic resolution still uncertain.

Source: