Ceasefire or Setup? Hamas’ 7-Year Demand May Be a Cover for Something Much Worse

In yet another blow to ongoing efforts aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza, Hamas has responded to the most recent ceasefire proposal with a list of extreme and unworkable demands, drawing sharp criticism from Israel and U.S. officials. The latest response from the terror group calls for a seven-year ceasefire, a complete withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from all areas captured since March, and an overhaul of the humanitarian aid delivery system all while continuing to retain control over Gaza and remain heavily armed.

A senior Israeli official familiar with the negotiations condemned Hamas' response, saying, “This isn’t a response it’s a slammed door.” U.S. Presidential Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, echoed the sentiment, describing Hamas’ reaction as “totally unacceptable” and “a step backward.” The Prime Minister’s Office of Israel stated that while Israel has agreed to the revised Witkoff framework which centers on securing the release of hostages Hamas remains obstinate in its refusal to meet even the basic requirements for peace.

Despite claims from Hamas that they “did not reject” the proposal and that Witkoff’s comments are “unfair” and biased toward Israel, the content of their demands tells a different story. Not only are they insisting on a long-term truce without disarmament, but their refusal to relinquish military control over Gaza strongly indicates that their ultimate goal is to use the ceasefire period to rearm, reorganize, and prepare for future violent campaigns potentially including another October 7th-scale massacre.

As part of their proposal, Hamas outlined a phased release of hostages: 10 living hostages would be freed over a 60-day period (4 on day one, 2 on day 30, and 4 on day 60), along with the staged return of 18 bodies of deceased hostages (on days 10, 30, and 50). In exchange, Hamas is demanding the release of an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners a tactic they have used in the past to extract strategic leverage.

Furthermore, Hamas is demanding the cancellation of the new humanitarian aid distribution system managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation a model designed to ensure aid reaches civilians, not terrorists. Instead, Hamas insists on reverting to the previous system, widely criticized for enabling their control over resources and exploitation of humanitarian channels for military gain.

This proposal starkly contrasts with Israel’s aims: the safe return of all hostages, security for its citizens, and an end to Hamas’ grip on Gaza. Instead, Hamas continues to show no intention of laying down arms, disbanding its terror infrastructure, or accepting any form of lasting peace that does not preserve its militant capabilities.

Analysts warn that the so-called "ceasefire" Hamas is proposing is nothing more than a tactical pause a period to rebuild tunnels, restock weaponry, and regroup forces. Israel fears that this lull would be used to plot a renewed wave of terror, potentially more devastating than previous attacks.

While Israel and the U.S. remain committed to securing a real, lasting resolution and freeing the hostages, Hamas’ outrageous demands underscore their true intentions: prolonging conflict, maintaining power, and preparing for further violence.