Hamas has issued a statement affirming that it continues to engage constructively with international mediators in ceasefire negotiations with Israel, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that a Gaza ceasefire deal is “very close.” The group said it has demonstrated the “necessary flexibility” to achieve an agreement and is committed to overcoming remaining obstacles to “end our people's suffering” and ensure their “freedom, security, and dignity.”

Core Demands and Remaining Disputes

According to the Hamas statement, the three unresolved issues include:

• The flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
• The presentation of clear Israeli withdrawal maps tied to the proposed 60-day truce.
• Binding guarantees for a comprehensive end to hostilities.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed earlier that only one central issue remains: the IDF withdrawal map. He previously rejected Israel’s initial proposal as inadequate and pushed for revisions during secret White House negotiations involving Israeli and Qatari officials.

Diplomatic Pressure Mounts

The statement comes amid intensifying diplomatic efforts by Washington and Doha to finalize a deal that would involve a 60-day truce and staged hostage releases. Hamas emphasized its cooperation despite “difficulties” in the talks and reiterated that it seeks a framework that ensures the long-term protection and rights of the Palestinian people.

The group’s announcement also signals its willingness to continue negotiating despite internal and external pressures, as Israeli operations in Gaza continue and international concern over the humanitarian situation grows.

Trump’s claim that an agreement is “very close” follows recent backchannel talks and revised Israeli proposals submitted under American and Qatari pressure.