Hamas armed wing says Israel blocking ceasefire and hostage release talks

Abu Obaida, spokesman for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Friday accused Israel of blocking a deal in talks for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. (Screengrab)
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Updated 18 July 2025
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Hamas armed wing says Israel blocking ceasefire and hostage release talks

  • Abu Obaida said Hamas “always proposed a comprehensive deal that will return all the hostages at once“

GAZA CITY: The armed wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday accused Israel of blocking a deal in talks for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza.

Abu Obaida, spokesman for the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said in a video statement that Hamas “always proposed a comprehensive deal that will return all the hostages at once.”

But he said Israel “rejected what we proposed,” urging it to reconsider.

“If the enemy remains obstinate in this round of negotiations we cannot guarantee a return to the partial-deal proposals — including the 10-prisoner (hostage) exchange offer,” he added.


Rubio says US hopes talks between Lebanon and Israel lead to strong govt, Hezbollah disarmed

Updated 7 sec ago
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Rubio says US hopes talks between Lebanon and Israel lead to strong govt, Hezbollah disarmed

  • “We are hopeful that talks between Lebanese authorities and Israelis will create outlines,” Rubio said

WASHINGTON: Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday the US hoped talks between Lebanese authorities and ⁠Israel would lead to a strong Lebanese government and see the ⁠Hezbollah militant group disarmed.
“We are hopeful that talks between Lebanese authorities and Israelis will create outlines and a ⁠way forward that prevents further conflict,” Rubio told a press conference.