[Updated from time to time] “Opinions are divided within Hamas” US newspaper (February 4)

Regarding negotiations over a cessation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, a leading American newspaper says that a permanent ceasefire should be sought with forces within the Islamic organization Hamas that have expressed an intention to accept a temporary cessation of fighting. I told them that opinions were divided among the factions.

Under these circumstances, diplomatic moves toward an agreement are also attracting attention.

*We will keep you updated on developments regarding Israel and Palestine as of February 4, Japan time.

“Opinion is divided within Hamas over temporary cessation of fighting and permanent ceasefire” US newspaper

The Israeli military continues to carry out military operations in areas such as Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, and health authorities in the area announced on the 3rd that 27,238 people have died so far.

Against this backdrop, on the 2nd, the Wall Street Journal, a leading American newspaper, reported on the negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which are being mediated by countries such as Qatar, regarding the cessation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, citing sources familiar with the negotiations. He said that there is a division of opinion within Hamas over how to respond to the current proposal.

According to the proposal, the proposal includes a six-week suspension of fighting in exchange for the release of the hostages, and Hamas leader Shinwar, the top leader in the Gaza Strip, has expressed his intention to accept it, saying it will buy time to rebuild the military. Haniyeh's top leaders are calling for a permanent ceasefire.

In a statement on the 2nd, top official Haniyeh emphasized his aim for a complete end to the fighting and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.

The United States is also involved in the negotiations, and Secretary of State Blinken is scheduled to visit Israel and Qatar, which is acting as a mediator, from the 4th to the 8th, so diplomatic moves toward an agreement will also be watched.