Hamas military spokesperson Abu Obeida signals the group could withdraw from ongoing negotiations, including proposals involving the release of 10 hostages, if Israel refuses to show flexibility.
Gaza —
Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, issued a warning Thursday that the group may withdraw entirely from the current negotiation framework if Israel continues to maintain its firm position.
In a public statement, Obeida cautioned that Hamas may no longer agree to even partial agreements, including a proposal involving the release of 10 hostages, if no progress is made.
“If the Israeli position remains rigid and uncompromising,” Obeida said, “Hamas will be unable to return to the framework of partial deals or proposals already on the table.”
The remarks underscore growing frustration within Hamas as ceasefire and hostage release negotiations face continued stalemates. The threat to pull back from even limited proposals could significantly complicate ongoing international efforts—particularly those led by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S.—to broker a phased agreement.
Israel has thus far insisted on conditions that include the return of all hostages and the dismantling of Hamas’ military infrastructure in Gaza—terms the group has categorically rejected.
Obeida’s statement may be intended as a pressure tactic, but it also raises the risk that the window for negotiated releases could be closing, leaving fewer options for humanitarian diplomacy amid the ongoing conflict.
