|
Trending Topics
|
Source: https://www.ynetnews.com/article/byg6d1zh1x
U.S.: Hamas Demands for Hostage Deal Are "Unrealistic"
(Ynet News) Daniel Edelson - U.S. envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said on Friday that Hamas is presenting "unrealistic" demands behind the scenes in hostage-release negotiations. "Hamas is making a very poor gamble by believing that time is on its side. That is not the case. Hamas is well aware of the deadline and must understand that we will respond accordingly if it passes," he warned. "According to the mediation proposal, Hamas will release live hostages in exchange for prisoners based on previous formulas. The first stage of the ceasefire will be extended to allow for the resumption of significant humanitarian aid, and the U.S. will work to achieve a stable solution to the ongoing conflict during the extended ceasefire period." "Through our Qatari and Egyptian partners, it was made unequivocally clear to Hamas that the mediation must be implemented quickly - and that the American-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander must be released immediately. Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly declaring flexibility while secretly presenting demands that are completely impossible without a permanent ceasefire."