Hamas Announces Progress in Gaza Ceasefire Talks as Returnees Head North

In a statement shared on the group's Telegram channel Monday night, Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri confirmed that discussions had begun on gauging whether both parties are prepared to move forward with the next stage of the cease-fire deal. He further emphasized that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had "no choice but to move forward with this agreement to the end," dismissing Netanyahu's claims of returning to fighting as mere "empty talk" intended for "local consumption."

Abu Zuhri also made key comments about the future of Gaza, asserting that the concept of removing Hamas from the equation no longer exists and that the future of Gaza remains a Palestinian matter. He emphasized the importance of Palestinian unity and governance, stating that Gaza "does not suffer from an administrative vacuum" and welcoming the formation of a new government agreed upon by Palestinian factions.

However, the situation on the ground in Gaza has been shifting dramatically as displaced Palestinians begin returning to northern Gaza, a process made possible by the ongoing ceasefire deal. On Monday, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians began heading back to their homes in northern Gaza, following the announcement that hostages, including Arbel Yehoud and two others, would be released later this week. The return of Gaza’s residents marks a significant change, with reports suggesting up to 650,000 people could return.

Hamas spokesperson Hassam Budran celebrated the move, calling it a "victory" for Palestinians and a rejection of Israeli attempts to displace them permanently. Budran highlighted that despite the difficulties, Palestinians have proven their resilience, reaffirming their commitment to their homeland.

Meanwhile, the hostage deal between Hamas and Israel continues, with mediators working to ensure the return of additional hostages. As of Monday, Hamas had provided a list of 33 hostages to be released during the first phase of the ceasefire, confirming that 25 of them are alive. In addition, a total of seven hostages have already been freed since the truce began on January 19.

The ongoing deal, brokered by Egypt and Qatar, has already seen the return of several hostages, and further releases are expected in the coming weeks. This ongoing process is part of a broader effort to maintain peace while addressing both sides’ humanitarian concerns.

Hamas has also dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that Jordan and Egypt should accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza. The idea has rekindled longstanding fears among Palestinians of being displaced permanently from their homes.