Hamas Rejects Truce, Pushing for Everything or Nothing

Hamas isn’t interested in a ceasefire. Once again, they’ve turned down Israel’s offer of a 45-day truce, even though it could have meant releasing hostages and potentially opening up a path to peace. Instead, they’re demanding everything: a full Israeli pullback, freeing all Palestinian prisoners, and starting to rebuild Gaza—no more half-measures.

Khalil Al-Hayya, one of the top Hamas officials, made this pretty clear in a speech. He called Israel’s offer a political game and claimed it wouldn’t help Gaza or its people.

But let’s not forget—Hamas started this war in the first place. Over 1,200 people were killed in Israel on October 7th, and since then, the situation’s only worsened. Israel’s goal? Bring the hostages home and stop Hamas from carrying out more attacks.

“Netanyahu and his government use partial agreements as a cover for their political agenda,” said Hayya.

Why is Hamas Saying “No” to Peace?

Israel’s 45-day ceasefire offer was meant to help both sides: Israel could release hostages, and the fighting could slow down. But Hamas rejected it, calling the terms “impossible.” They want Israel to stop its military actions and let them rearm—conditions that Israel can’t accept.

Efforts to mediate by Egypt and Qatar have gotten nowhere. Hamas has been clear: they want it all, or they’ll keep fighting. It’s not about peace; it’s about keeping up the violence.

From the US, James Hewitt from the National Security Council was blunt:

“Hamas isn’t looking for peace—they’re looking to keep the violence going. The terms are clear: release the hostages, or face serious consequences.”

The Truth About Gaza’s Suffering

Hamas isn’t just fighting Israel—they’re using the people of Gaza as human shields, hiding weapons in schools, hospitals, and homes. That’s why it’s nearly impossible for Israel to take out Hamas without civilians getting hurt. Israel’s not trying to hurt civilians—they’re targeting Hamas’s infrastructure, hoping to end the war.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Hamas is digging in its heels, and Israel’s not backing down. The only way this war ends is if Hamas releases the hostages and ends the violence. As long as they refuse to stop, the suffering will continue.

It’s not Israel keeping this war going—it’s Hamas.