Hamas’s military spokesperson, Abu Obeida, announced that Israel rejected a proposed “comprehensive” ceasefire deal that would have secured the release of all captives still held in Gaza, while also establishing a permanent end to the war. In a nearly 20-minute prerecorded video, Abu Obeida affirmed Hamas’s preparedness for a prolonged conflict if negotiations falter.

He criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu and his far-right ministers for showing “no real interest” in freeing captives, arguing that Israel views them solely as soldiers. The deal also included Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a ramp-up in humanitarian aid delivery.

Abu Obeida warned that if Israel abandons indirect talks in Doha, there would be no future interim agreements—ending prospects for the current 60-day proposal involving 10 captives and 18 bodies. Hamas reportedly holds around 50 captives in Gaza, with only about 20 believed to be alive.

The message came amid escalating violence—Israeli forces killed roughly 41 Palestinians in Gaza on the same day—with worsening humanitarian conditions cited throughout the enclave. Abu Obeida accused Arab and Islamic nations of failing to take action against an ongoing “genocide” in Gaza.