Hamas statement on 'hostages': No exchange until there is a ceasefire

The Israeli Prime Minister's Office stated that negotiations for a temporary ceasefire and hostage exchange had reached a 'deadlock' and recalled the Mossad team in Qatar, prompting a response from Hamas on the matter.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Deputy Chairman of the Hamas Political Bureau Saleh al-Arouri said that there would be no further hostage exchanges until a full ceasefire is reached in Gaza and all Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons are released. 

"OUR DECISION IS FINAL, WE WILL NOT COMPROMISE"

According to the Haaretz newspaper, al-Arouri argued that they only have male hostages and soldiers left, stating, "Israel insists that we still have women and children, even though we have told them that we have already handed over all the women and children in our possession."

Al-Arouri said, "As far as we are concerned, the adults we have served in the army; some are still in reserve service." Explaining that Hamas is also willing to exchange bodies, al-Arouri said that time is needed to locate and retrieve the bodies of Israelis, some of whom were killed in Israel's bombardment of Gaza. Al-Arouri stated, "Let the war take its course. This decision is final. We will not compromise on this matter."

ISRAEL HELD RESPONSIBLE

Hamas Political Bureau member Izzat al-Rishq also issued a written statement following Israel's resumption of attacks after the end of the temporary ceasefire in Gaza. The statement noted that "Hamas responded positively to negotiations for the extension of the temporary ceasefire."

According to AA, al-Rishq explained that Israel is putting forward 'baseless claims and justifications' to whitewash its attacks, and argued that 'Israel rejected the mediators' proposals and is responsible for the failure to extend the ceasefire.'

Al-Rishq added that 'Israel is trying to cover up its plans to continue its brutal attacks and horrific massacres against defenseless civilians.'

News Source: AA