Khalil al-Hayya, acting Gaza chief of Hamas, clearly stated on Wednesday that no deal to swap hostages for prisoners with Israel would happen unless the war in Gaza ends. Speaking to the Al-Aqsa television channel, he emphasized, “Without an end to the war, there can be no prisoner swap.”
During the interview, Hayya questioned why the resistance, particularly Hamas, would release hostages while the war continues. “Why would anyone give up a strong advantage while aggression is ongoing?” he said, holding firm on the group’s stance.
Hayya, who leads Hamas’ negotiations with Qatari and Egyptian mediators, blamed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the deadlock. Netanyahu, in turn, accused Hamas of stalling progress.
Hayya remarked, “There are ongoing talks with countries and mediators. We are ready to engage, but the occupation must show real willingness to end aggression.”
Netanyahu’s Stand on the Conflict
Netanyahu, during his visit to Gaza on Tuesday, declared that Hamas would not govern Gaza after the war ends. He added that Israel’s efforts have significantly damaged Hamas’ military strength. Netanyahu also announced a $5 million reward for information leading to the recovery of each of the remaining 101 hostages.
While Hamas seeks a deal involving an end to the war and the release of both hostages and Palestinian prisoners, Netanyahu insists that the war will only conclude with Hamas’ complete elimination.
Role of Mediation Efforts
Qatar, along with Egypt, plays a key role in ceasefire talks. However, Qatari officials warned that mediation efforts might halt unless both sides demonstrate genuine intent to negotiate.
Earlier this month, Reuters reported that the U.S. urged Qatar to expel Hamas’ political office, though Qatari officials clarified that the office was established to aid mediation.
Future Governance of Gaza
Hayya revealed that Hamas had welcomed Egypt’s suggestion for an administrative committee, including representatives from Hamas and the rival Fatah movement, to govern Gaza post-conflict.
However, no final agreement has been reached. Israel opposes any governance role for Hamas in Gaza and expresses distrust in the Palestinian Authority under President Mahmoud Abbas.
Impact of the Conflict
The ongoing war has left devastating impacts. The attack on Israel earlier this year resulted in 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages, as per Israeli reports. In response, Israel launched its most destructive campaign in Gaza, killing nearly 44,000 people and leaving millions without essential resources, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as both sides remain far from reaching an agreement to end the violence.
