By Ata Ur Rahmen 
Hamas Rejects US Ceasefire Plan Gaza
The US Ceasefire Plan Gaza, presented as a new framework to end the ongoing conflict, has faced rejection from Hamas’ military leadership. According to reports by the BBC, mediators approached senior Hamas figures, but they refused to accept the terms, claiming the plan was designed to dismantle Hamas regardless of compliance. This has intensified concerns about the chances of a long-term truce in the region.
Core Demands of the US Framework
The 20-point framework, introduced under US President Donald Trump’s initiative, was previously accepted by Israel. The plan requires Hamas to lay down arms, release hostages within 72 hours, and withdraw from any political role in Gaza’s future governance. In exchange, Israel would gradually withdraw its military presence and allow for the establishment of an international stabilization force to oversee the transition.
Internal Divisions Within Hamas
While some members of Hamas’ political leadership in Qatar appear open to negotiating minor amendments to the plan, their influence is limited. The military wing, which controls hostages inside Gaza, has resisted compromise. Analysts believe this split highlights the growing divide between Hamas’ political and military wings, further complicating mediation efforts.
Hostage Crisis at the Center
Reports suggest that Hamas is holding at least 48 hostages, though only 20 are believed to be alive. The US framework demands their release within the first three days of a ceasefire. For Hamas, this would mean giving up its primary leverage before securing guarantees for Palestinian sovereignty, which remains a non-negotiable condition.
Security Concerns and Buffer Zone Dispute
One of the most controversial points in the US Ceasefire Plan Gaza is the establishment of a “security buffer zone” on Gaza’s borders with Egypt and Israel. While the plan suggests international oversight, Hamas leaders fear this will serve as a new form of occupation. Some leaders also objected to the role of Arab and US-backed forces being stationed in Gaza, describing it as foreign interference.
Netanyahu’s Opposition to US Terms
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu further complicated the situation by contradicting parts of the US framework. In a recent video statement, he insisted that Israeli forces would remain in certain areas of Gaza, rejecting the idea of complete withdrawal. He also reiterated his opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state, a stance that directly conflicts with Washington’s proposed roadmap for peace.
Trust Deficit Between Parties
Another major barrier is the lack of trust between Hamas and Israel. Even with US guarantees, Hamas fears Israel may resume military operations after hostages are released. This concern stems from recent incidents, including an airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas leadership despite American opposition. Such actions fuel skepticism over Israel’s long-term commitment to any ceasefire.
International and Regional Reactions
The rejection of the US Ceasefire Plan Gaza has also drawn responses from regional and global actors. Qatar and Egypt, both active mediators in past negotiations, have urged all parties to show flexibility to avoid further civilian casualties. The European Union called the plan “an important step toward peace,” though it acknowledged that trust-building measures are essential. Meanwhile, human rights organizations have expressed concern that continued hostilities will deepen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where basic resources such as food, water, and electricity remain critically limited.
Path Ahead for Peace in Gaza
Despite international calls for de-escalation, the rejection of the US Ceasefire Plan Gaza has left the future uncertain. Washington continues to stress that the framework could provide a “credible pathway” toward Palestinian self-determination and eventual statehood. However, Hamas maintains that it will not surrender arms unless a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established.
For now, the prospects of ending the conflict remain uncertain, as regional actors, including Qatar and Egypt, attempt to bridge the gaps. The outcome of these negotiations will likely shape not just Gaza’s future but also broader Middle East stability.
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