'Israel' commits massacres during talks to pressure Hamas: Official
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Hamas official Taher el-Nounou says “Israel” is escalating massacres to pressure negotiations, and insists on a full ceasefire in exchange for a prisoner swap.
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A Hamas fighter in combat fatigues stands before the ceremony for the handover of Israeli captives to the Red Cross in Nuseirat, central Gaza Strip, Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 (AP)
Senior Hamas official Taher el-Nounou accused the Israeli occupation on Sunday of deliberately committing massacres during negotiations in order to increase Palestinian casualties and apply pressure to gain leverage at the table.
“With each round of negotiations, the occupation intentionally escalates its massacres to raise the death toll and achieve bargaining gains,” el-Nounou told Al Mayadeen.
He confirmed that the Israeli side continues to push for a partial truce and temporary cessation of hostilities. El-Nounou reiterated Hamas’ longstanding refusal to discuss the issue of disarmament or the forced removal of its leadership, or any Palestinian, from their land.
“We will never accept an agreement with the Israeli occupation that is divided into multiple stages. The only acceptable outcome for Hamas is a comprehensive prisoner exchange deal in return for a complete end to the war and the withdrawal of the occupation forces,” he stressed.
Netanyahu, the 'greatest criminal'
El-Nounou also described the Israeli occupation’s conduct since the start of the war as one centered on "professionalized killing," adding, “Netanyahu will be remembered as the greatest criminal in human history.”
He reiterated that Hamas is prepared for a full-scale prisoner exchange deal involving all Israeli captives held in Gaza, in exchange for a full ceasefire. However, he warned that the occupation continues to maneuver in talks by demanding the return of all captives without committing to a full halt to the war.
El-Nounou added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is obstructing the talks because "his political survival depends on continuing the war."
“If the Americans truly want progress, they possess the tools to pressure the occupation,” el-Nounou concluded. "The Palestinian people alone have the right to decide who governs Palestine."
Hamas ready for dialogue on own terms
Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi affirmed that the movement’s position on indirect negotiations with the Israeli occupation is clear, emphasizing its readiness to engage in dialogue without compromising on fundamental principles, foremost among them the end of the war on Gaza.
In an exclusive interview with Al Mayadeen, Mardawi confirmed that Hamas is actively participating in the negotiations in Doha, seeking to reach an agreement. However, he noted that the outcome remains dependent on the seriousness of the Israeli side.
Mardawi highlighted that the current negotiations are taking place without preconditions, which has given the process a distinct momentum.
