In a setback to the recent peace talks, Hamas leaders have rejected a proposed cease-fire agreement, citing Israel's obstructionist tactics and imposition of new conditions. The agreement, which had raised hopes of a potential resolution to the ongoing conflict, was discussed during talks last week with mediators from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar.

Hamas, in a statement issued on Sunday, expressed frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of impeding the progress towards a peace deal. The statement claimed that Netanyahu had intentionally set new demands and conditions to undermine the efforts of the mediators and extend the duration of the conflict.

The negotiations between Israel and Hamas are primarily focused on key issues such as border control, the release of Israeli hostages and security prisoners, and the future governance of the embattled Gaza Strip. President Joe Biden, on Friday, expressed optimism, stating that the parties involved were closer than ever to reaching an agreement.

Netanyahu, however, has remained steadfast in his demand that Hamas militants have no role in the future of Gaza. This demand, which has been firmly rejected by Hamas, poses a significant challenge to the negotiations. Any deviation from this stance by Netanyahu could risk his fragile alliance with Israel's far-right and his hold on the prime minister's office.

The latest response from Hamas indicates that the new proposal put forward by Israeli authorities aligns with Netanyahu's conditions, rejecting a permanent cease-fire and a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. The statement also criticized Netanyahu for introducing new conditions in the prisoner exchange plan.

While Netanyahu maintains that Israel is actively negotiating, he shifted blame onto Hamas for their refusal to participate, highlighting the absence of a representative from their side at the talks in Doha. Netanyahu urged the international community to direct pressure towards Hamas rather than the Israeli government, emphasizing their responsibility to engage in negotiations.

In the face of potential threats from Iran and Lebanon-based Hezbollah, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel is prepared to respond firmly, warning that any enemy daring to attack will face severe consequences.

As negotiations continue, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has returned to Israel armed with a "bridging proposal" intended to establish a cease-fire, secure the release of all hostages, ensure humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza, and lay the groundwork for regional stability. However, it has been reported that the proposal does not accommodate Israel's demands for an ongoing presence along the Gaza-Egypt border or preventing the return of armed Hamas forces in Gaza.

Blinken's visit also emphasizes the need for all parties to avoid escalation or actions that could jeopardize the finalization of an agreement. The delicate nature of the negotiations requires a cautious approach to prevent further tensions in the region.

As international attention remains focused on the talks, the rejection of the proposed cease-fire agreement by Hamas presents a significant roadblock. While the efforts to secure a lasting peace continue, the path forward appears challenging as both sides remain firm in their respective positions.