Hamas declared on Saturday that it will not lay down its weapons unless Palestinians gain a fully independent state with Jerusalem as the capital. This firm stance directly opposes one of Israel’s main demands to end the war in Gaza.

The statement followed the collapse of recent indirect talks between Hamas and Israel. These negotiations aimed to secure a 60-day ceasefire and free hostages, but they failed to reach any agreement last week.

Peace Efforts Backed by Mediators Fall Apart

Qatar and Egypt have been leading the mediation efforts. Recently, they supported a joint declaration by France and Saudi Arabia. That proposal called for practical steps toward a two-state solution. One of the key points in the declaration suggested Hamas hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority.

However, Hamas rejected that idea. Instead, it insisted on continuing what it called “armed resistance.” The group stated it would only consider disarmament after a sovereign Palestinian state is officially established. Hamas has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007. Despite facing heavy military losses in the current war, it shows no signs of giving up its armed forces.

Israel Stands Firm on Disarmament and Rejects Palestinian State

On the other side, Israel maintains that peace is only possible if Hamas gives up its weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also continued to reject the idea of a Palestinian state. He believes that a future Palestinian state would turn into a base for attacks against Israel.

Last month, Netanyahu repeated his belief that Israel must continue to have security control over Palestinian areas. He also criticized countries like the United Kingdom and Canada for recognizing Palestinian statehood during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. He described their recognition as rewarding Hamas for violence.

War’s Human Toll Continues to Grow

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led fighters crossed into southern Israel. They killed 1,200 people and kidnapped 251 others. Since then, Israel has launched ongoing military operations in Gaza. The attacks have left over 60,000 Palestinians dead and caused a deepening humanitarian disaster.

Although indirect talks have been ongoing, both sides continue to blame each other for the lack of progress. Disputes over issues like Israel’s military presence in Gaza remain unresolved.

US Envoy Meets Hostage Families in Tel Aviv

As hope fades for a breakthrough, US envoy Steve Witkoff visited Tel Aviv on Saturday. He met with families of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. The relatives are increasingly fearful for their loved ones, nearly 22 months into the war.

Witkoff was welcomed by a crowd of protesters, some of whom applauded while others pleaded for help. He then went into a private meeting with the families.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum confirmed that the meeting was taking place. Videos shared online showed Witkoff arriving as people chanted, “Bring them home!” and “We need your help.”

Witkoff Also Visits Gaza Aid Station

Witkoff’s meeting with the families came just a day after he visited a US-funded aid station in Gaza. There, he inspected the ongoing efforts to deliver food and supplies into the heavily damaged Palestinian territory.

As the war continues, and with diplomatic efforts stalling, both human suffering and political tensions show no signs of easing.