Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya stated on Thursday that Hamas has repeatedly proposed a ceasefire lasting five years or more, according to statements he gave to American news agency, Associated Press (AP).

He also mentioned that Hamas has offered to establish a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza, with Jerusalem as its capital, along with the return of refugees.

Al-Hayya's statements, reported by AP, come after American officials accused Hamas of obstructing a ceasefire agreement, which Hamas denied, placing full responsibility on the Israeli Occupation government.

Al-Hayya emphasized Hamas' desire for Qatar to continue its role as a mediator and clarified that there are no plans to permanently relocate the movement's political office. He reiterated that Hamas will not retract its demands for a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) from Gaza.

In regards to the detention of Israeli Occupation officers, a Hamas leader disclosed that around 30 generals and Shin Bet officers were detained on October 7 from military units and sensitive sites. These captives are reportedly held in secure locations beyond the reach of IOF.

The Hamas leader denied reports by Hebrew media that Hamas proposed releasing only 20 prisoners instead of 40 during recent negotiations in Cairo. He asserted that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar remains actively engaged in Gaza despite ongoing aggression and intelligence operations.

Sinwar recently visited areas of clashes between Hamas and Israeli Occupation Forces and met with members of the movement in person rather than in tunnels.

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