Senior Hamas official Mushir al-Masri criticized Donald Trump for alleged “double standards” concerning hostage negotiations in Gaza. Following the White House’s confirmation of direct talks with Hamas, al-Masri noted that the ceasefire remains fragile, as Israel blocks essential aid to compel Hamas for an extended truce. He sought resolution on hostages in exchange for negotiations on a sustainable ceasefire. Al-Masri condemned Trump’s focus on Israeli prisoners while ignoring the plight of nearly 10,000 Palestinian detainees. He urged the US to adopt a neutral stance, as Trump’s controversial plans for Gaza face backlash. The situation continues to evolve with international implications.
A high-ranking Hamas official, Mushir al-Masri, has charged Donald Trump with exhibiting “blatant double standards” regarding the situation of hostages in Gaza. These statements followed the White House’s confirmation of direct negotiations with Hamas aimed at securing the release of hostages, representing a notable change in US policy.
The discussions between Hamas and the US are intended to foster stability in the region, al-Masri stated to CNN. Nevertheless, the ceasefire in Gaza remains fragile, with Israel obstructing essential aid to compel Hamas to prolong the truce. Since the October 7 terror attack, Israel has refrained from direct negotiations with Hamas and has pledged to eliminate the group.
Al-Masri highlighted that Hamas is eager to address the hostage crisis in exchange for talks regarding the next phase of the ceasefire. This phase would involve the release of any remaining live hostages in return for a lasting end to hostilities. Currently, it is believed that only one living American hostage, Edan Alexander, remains in Gaza, alongside four deceased Americans and at least 12 dual US-Israeli detainees.
He criticized Trump for concentrating on Israeli prisoners while overlooking nearly 10,000 Palestinians held in Israeli jails. Al-Masri also accused the US administration of showing favoritism toward Israel, portraying itself as a participant rather than a neutral mediator in the conflict.
Despite ongoing discussions, Trump has persisted in threatening Hamas, insisting that they must release all hostages without delay or face repercussions. US Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, hinted at potential military action by the US in Gaza if Hamas does not meet American demands.
Al-Masri called on the Trump administration to maintain neutrality and avoid becoming a “replica” of the Biden administration in its pro-Israel stance. He stressed that intimidation tactics would prove ineffective and that efforts to forcibly displace the Gazan population would be in vain.
Trump’s proposal to take control of Gaza and develop a Middle Eastern “riviera” has faced significant backlash. The plan entails the expulsion of around 2 million Palestinians, which has been widely denounced as ethnic cleansing. The Arab League has suggested an alternative strategy, proposing the establishment of an interim committee to oversee Gaza and facilitate the Palestinian Authority’s reinstatement.
The situation is intricate and sensitive, with numerous stakeholders involved. The international community is observing closely, and the results will have profound implications for regional stability and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.