Hamas Rejects Cease-Fire Proposal, Israel Blasts U.N. Resolution

Palestinians wounded in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip are brought to Al Aqsa hospital in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Monday, March 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Ismael abu dayyah)

Hamas has rejected the latest proposal for a cease-fire and hostage release, while Israel criticized a U.N. Security Council resolution that called for both without linking them. The war in Gaza has entered its sixth month, with both sides claiming victory is within reach and rejecting international efforts to end the bloodshed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believes Israel can achieve its goals by expanding its ground offensive to Rafah, where many Gazans have sought refuge. Hamas, on the other hand, demands a more permanent cease-fire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants.

Israel criticizes U.N. resolution for not linking cease-fire to hostage release.

Hamas rejects cease-fire proposal, demands Israeli withdrawal and prisoner release.

Israeli offensive in Rafah continues, while Hamas seeks permanent cease-fire.

Over 32,000 Palestinian deaths, widespread destruction, and looming famine in Gaza.

Recent Israeli strike in Rafah kills 16, including women and children.

U.N. Security Council resolution calls for cease-fire, angers Israel for not linking to hostages.

Efforts by U.S., Qatar, and Egypt to negotiate cease-fire stall over demands.

Netanyahu rejects Hamas demands, vows to continue offensive until Hamas is destroyed.

U.S. expresses concern over civilian casualties but supports Israel's actions.

Conflict shows no resolution as both sides remain entrenched, prolonging civilian suffering.

The conflict has resulted in over 32,000 Palestinian deaths, widespread destruction in Gaza, displacement of residents, and a looming famine for a third of the population. A recent Israeli strike in Rafah killed at least 16 people, including women and children.

The U.N. Security Council passed a resolution calling for a cease-fire, angering Israel by not conditioning it on the release of hostages. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the resolution for emboldening Hamas without requiring concessions.

The war began with Hamas-led militants attacking southern Israel, resulting in casualties and abductions. Efforts by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt to negotiate a cease-fire and hostage release have stalled, with Hamas sticking to its demands for a comprehensive agreement.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejects Hamas' demands as unrealistic and vows to continue the offensive until Hamas is destroyed. The U.S. has expressed concern over civilian casualties but continues to support Israel's military actions.

The White House has advised against a major ground operation in Rafah to prevent a humanitarian crisis. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is in Washington for talks with U.S. officials, reaffirming Israel's commitment to its objectives.

The conflict shows no signs of resolution as both sides remain entrenched in their positions, prolonging the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.

For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's war coverage.