A senior Hamas representative in Gaza has criticized former US President Donald Trump for exhibiting “blatant double standards” in his demand for the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. However, the group acknowledged that direct negotiations with American officials aim to foster regional stability.
Mushir al-Masri, a Hamas official, confirmed that discussions with the US are intended to cease hostilities in Gaza and halt the aggression against Palestinians. This revelation follows the White House’s confirmation of engaging directly with Hamas, breaking the US’s long-standing policy of avoiding dialogue with groups it labels as terrorist organizations.
Direct Engagement for Stability
Al-Masri emphasized that stability in the region can only be achieved through agreements with Hamas. He stated, “Any meetings held with the American side aim to end the war and bring peace to our people.”
Since the October 7 attacks, Israel has refused to negotiate directly with Hamas, instead aiming to dismantle the group. Despite the recent talks, Israel’s stance remains firm, with officials expressing their position to the US without elaborating further.
Hostage Negotiations and Ceasefire
Hamas aims to address the issue of American-Israeli hostages in exchange for progressing to the next phase of the ceasefire, which would involve the release of remaining captives in return for ending the fighting. Currently, only one American hostage, Edan Alexander, is believed to be alive in Gaza, while the group holds four deceased American citizens. Additionally, around 12 dual US-Israeli nationals were reportedly captured on October 7.
Al-Masri criticized Trump’s focus on Israeli hostages while ignoring the nearly 10,000 Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons. He argued that Trump’s rhetoric provides cover for Israel’s actions against Palestinians.
US Threats and Potential Military Action
Trump’s warnings on his Truth Social account demanded the immediate release of hostages or face severe consequences. Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff, the US envoy for the Middle East, hinted at potential American military action in Gaza, possibly in collaboration with Israel, should Hamas fail to comply.
Al-Masri condemned these threats as an attempt to legitimize acts of genocide against Palestinians. He urged the Trump administration to adopt a neutral stance rather than echo the policies of the previous Biden administration.
A Call for Fair Mediation
According to Al-Masri, the US’s overt support for Israel positions it as a party to the conflict rather than a mediator. “A mediator should bridge the gap between parties, not exacerbate the situation,” he added. He further rejected any efforts to forcibly displace Gazans, calling them futile.
Trump’s controversial proposal to transform Gaza into a Middle Eastern “riviera” under American ownership has only intensified tensions, with Palestinian leaders and international allies voicing strong opposition.
By engaging in dialogue, Hamas aims to secure peace and stability in Gaza while resisting external pressure and defending the rights of Palestinians.
