Worthy Christian News > Israel-Palestinian Conflict > Hamas Rejects Hostage Deal, Hamas Fires Rockets into Central Israel

Hamas Rejects Hostage Deal, Hamas Fires Rockets into Central Israel

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – For the first time in over a month, Hamas launched a barrage of rockets into Central Israel on Monday while rejecting a hostage deal and would only accept a deal that included a full withdrawal of Israel Defense Forces from Gaza.

During talks held in Paris over the weekend, representatives from Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar reportedly reached a framework on a proposed cease-fire agreement that would involve the release of hostages held by Hamas.

It has been reported across several media outlets that the negotiated framework proposed the release of 100-250 prisoners for each hostage taken. The agreement potentially involved freeing up to 5,000 prisoners, including those facing serious charges such as murder. Furthermore, the framework included provisions for significant humanitarian aid as part of the proposed deal.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office denied such reports of a hostage deal since it included conditions that were unacceptable to Israel.

On Monday evening, Hamas spokesman Taher al-Nunu told AFP, “We are talking first of all about a complete and comprehensive ceasefire, and not a temporary truce,” and only when the fighting stops “the rest of the details can be discussed” including a hostage release.

For the first time in over a month, Hamas fired a barrage of rockets towards central Israel, causing damage to several cars but resulting in no injuries. Of the 11 rockets launched, the Iron Dome missile defense system successfully intercepted seven, while the rest landed in open areas. The attack triggered alarm sirens in Tel Aviv and nearby cities, including Rishon Lezion, Holon, and Bat Yam.