Hamas Proposes Independent State in Exchange for Five-Year Truce, While Kirby Condemns the Group as a Terrorist Organization

In an interview with the Associated Press, Hamas Politburo member Khalil al-Hayya outlined the group’s proposal for creating an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Al-Hayya suggested that in exchange for a five-year truce, Hamas would disband its militant wing and transition into a political party. However, he also stated that Hamas does not regret recent attacks on October 7, which caused damage in Gaza.

John Kirby, the National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator, spoke out against Hamas as a terrorist organization aboard Air Force One. He condemned the violation of a ceasefire in place until October 6 and called for hostages to be released as a demonstration of Hamas’s commitment to creating a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Kirby underscored the United States’ stance on Hamas and its role in perpetuating violence in the region.