Hamas claims Netanyahu sabotaged deal, says they did not reject U.S. proposal

Al-Qanoua’s remarks, reported by Israeli journalist Sapir Lapkin, paint a picture of Hamas as a willing negotiator thwarted by Israel’s decision to reignite hostilities in Gaza. “Witcoff’s proposal was on the negotiation table, and we did not reject it,” he stated. “Hamas’ interest was to continue the agreement, but Netanyahu resumed the war.”

The spokesperson emphasized that Hamas remains engaged with mediators, portraying the group as a responsible and proactive player in efforts to halt the conflict. “The organization is in contact with the mediators and is acting responsibly and positively regarding the cessation of aggression,” al-Qanoua said, adding that Hamas intends to sustain these discussions moving forward. The comments come amid heightened tensions following Hamas’ earlier dismissal of terms deemed “unrealistic” by Witcoff, who warned on March 14 that the group’s stalling tactics were a miscalculation. Yet al-Qanoua’s latest statements suggest a strategic pivot, framing Hamas as open to diplomacy while shifting culpability to Israel.

This narrative clashes with Israel’s stance, where officials accuse Hamas of obstructing peace and rebuilding its military strength—estimated at 25,000 fighters, per opposition MKs on March 16. Netanyahu’s government has prioritized dismantling Hamas’ capabilities, a goal al-Qanoua’s words sidestep. Instead, he positions Hamas as a victim of Israeli aggression, a claim likely aimed at garnering sympathy from Arab audiences via Al-Arabi. As mediators scramble to broker a ceasefire, the spokesperson’s insistence on Hamas’ constructive role raises questions about the group’s sincerity—or whether this is a calculated bid to deflect pressure. With Witcoff’s proposal still in play, the region teeters between dialogue and further bloodshed, hinging on whose version of events prevails.