Hamas Rejects Talks After Israel Reveals Long-Term Gaza Occupation Plan

The fragile lines between war and diplomacy in Gaza may have snapped entirely. As Israel outlines its most aggressive military strategy yet, Hamas signals the end of any space for negotiation.

Israel’s Plan Sparks Outrage

A senior Hamas official has declared further ceasefire talks “pointless” after Israel announced a plan to expand its ground offensive and occupy Gaza indefinitely. The statement came from Bassem Naim, who told the BBC that Hamas would not engage in new proposals while Israel continues what he described as a “war of starvation,” as reported by Digi24.

Israeli officials say the goal is to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of remaining hostages. Their new strategy includes relocating most of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents, seizing control of the territory, and assuming full authority over humanitarian aid—a move that follows a two-month blockade.

International Backlash Grows

The planned escalation has triggered strong responses from key international players. The United Nations, along with the UK and France, has warned of devastating consequences. UN Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned that Israel’s actions would “inevitably lead to the killing of countless civilians and the further destruction of Gaza.”

UN agencies and humanitarian partners have also condemned Israel’s proposal to distribute aid via private contractors through military centers. They argue that such measures violate core humanitarian principles and have pledged not to cooperate under those terms.

A Narrowing Window

Israeli officials have stated the operation will not commence until after U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the region next week. They’ve framed the delay as a final opportunity for Hamas to accept a ceasefire agreement—but with trust at an all-time low, prospects for renewed dialogue appear increasingly remote.

As rhetoric hardens and options shrink, Gaza teeters on the brink of deeper conflict.