Hamas says it will remain on the ground and seeks a three- to five-year ceasefire
Al-Khamisa News Network - Gaza
Mohammad Nazzal, a Hamas leader, said the movement is prepared to accept a truce of between 3 and 5 years to rebuild Gaza.
He told Reuters the movement’s presence in the area is “necessary to protect humanitarian aid shipments from thieves and armed gangs.”
When asked about this again, he replied: “This is not a readiness to resume fighting.” Nazzal said, “I cannot answer yes or no on whether Hamas would give up its weapons.”
Nazzal added: “The issue of arms is a national, public matter and not only about Hamas; there are other active factions on the ground that have weapons.”
He sought to clarify that Hamas “will be present” in the area during the transfer of authority, which he said would take place through elections.
