Hamas Stresses Seriousness About Gaza Deal but Conditions Still Stand

On the second anniversary of the devastating October 7, 2023, conflict, Hamas has reiterated its commitment to pursuing a Gaza deal while underlining that certain conditions remain non-negotiable. Speaking on the anniversary, senior Hamas official Fawzi Barhoum emphasized that a lasting solution requires not only a ceasefire but also Israel’s withdrawal from occupied areas of Gaza and an internationally supervised reconstruction process led by Palestinian authorities.

Indirect negotiations are currently underway in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, with mediation support from the United States and Qatar. Both Israel and Hamas have expressed willingness to work toward humanitarian relief, the release of hostages, and the restoration of essential services in Gaza. However, major disagreements persist, particularly regarding Hamas’ demand to retain its defensive capabilities, which Israel continues to oppose.

The anniversary comes amid ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where thousands of families remain displaced, and infrastructure continues to suffer from past hostilities. Experts suggest that even if a deal is reached, the long-term success of any agreement will depend on trust-building, sustained monitoring, and international support for reconstruction efforts.

Global attention remains high, with civil society groups and international media emphasizing the urgency of protecting civilians and ensuring that peace talks translate into tangible relief on the ground.