Islamic Jihad supports Hamas in Gaza truce talks but demands guarantees

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), an ally of Hamas, expressed support on Saturday for planned negotiations aimed at establishing a truce with 'Israel' in Gaza. However, the group stressed the need for "guarantees" to ensure the talks would result in a lasting ceasefire.

In a statement following Hamas's indication of readiness to engage in discussions, the PIJ said, "We presented (Hamas) a number of detailed points on the mechanism for putting in place the mediators' proposal, and we want additional guarantees to assure us (that Israel) will not resume its aggression after (the captives) are freed."

On Friday, Hamas has concluded internal consultations and discussions with various Palestinian factions and political forces regarding the most recent ceasefire proposal submitted by mediators, according to a statement released by the group.

Following the discussions, Hamas confirmed that it has officially submitted its response to the mediators, describing it as "positive." The proposal is aimed at ending the ongoing 'Israeli' aggression against the people of Gaza.

"The movement has delivered its response to the mediators, which was characterized as positive," the statement read. "Hamas is fully prepared and serious about immediately entering a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework."

This development marks a potential breakthrough in efforts to secure a ceasefire and bring an end to months of the war on the Gaza Strip. It also reflects growing regional and international pressure to reach a negotiated solution amid worsening humanitarian conditions on the ground.

Hamas’s declared readiness to begin immediate negotiations is expected to place pressure on all parties involved, particularly the 'Israeli' side, to engage constructively in talks aimed at finalizing a sustainable ceasefire agreement.