Hamas official denies progress in talks, says resistance arms non-negotiable

A senior Hamas official has denied reports of progress in ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations, saying no new proposals have been received and that resistance weapons will not be part of any talks.

Tahar al-Nunu, media adviser to the head of Hamas’ political bureau, called recent 'Israeli' media claims of breakthroughs “misleading,” adding that Hamas has not been presented with any new offers related to a prisoner exchange agreement.

“Hamas is ready to release all captives held by the resistance as part of a comprehensive deal that includes ending the war and rebuilding Gaza,” al-Nunu said.

He emphasized that the key issue is not the number of captives, but rather 'Israel’s' refusal to commit to a permanent ceasefire.

“The occupation only wants to retrieve its captives without agreeing to stop the aggression against Gaza,” he said.

al-Nunu also reaffirmed that the governance of Gaza is a purely Palestinian issue and rejected any foreign administration or military presence in the territory.

He stressed that the disarmament of resistance groups is off the table. “The weapons of the resistance are not up for negotiation and will remain as long as the occupation exists,” he stated.

The comments come amid renewed international efforts to secure a ceasefire and reach a deal to release captives held in Gaza, as the war continues into its second year.