Hamas Dream of Statehood Stalls as US Slams Hamas Amid Ceasefire Concerns

In response to an interview given by Hamas politburo member Khalil al-Hayya to the Associated Press, National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby made it clear that the United States will not support the creation of a Palestinian state under Hamas control. Al-Hayya, who was in Istanbul at the time, expressed Hamas’ proposal to establish an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, along with the return of Palestinian refugees in exchange for a truce lasting at least five years. However, Kirby labeled Hamas as a terrorist group and criticized their actions, emphasizing that Hamas leaders have the power to end the conflict immediately by adhering to ceasefire agreements and releasing hostages. Kirby highlighted that Hamas’ disregard for previous ceasefires undermines their credibility in seeking a state for the Palestinian people.