Hamas Proposes Independent Palestinian State, US Calls for Immediate End to Violence and Release of Hostages

Khalil al-Hayya, a Hamas politburo member and the formal deputy of Hamas head in Gaza Yahya Sinouar, outlined the group’s proposal for an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip during an interview with the Associated Press (AP). Al-Hayya, who is currently in Istanbul, suggested that in exchange for a five-year truce, Hamas would disband its militant wing and transition into a political party. However, despite recent attacks on October 7 that caused damage to Gaza, al-Hayya stated that Hamas does not regret these actions as they brought attention to the Palestinian issue.

John Kirby, the National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator for the United States, condemned Hamas as a terrorist organization during his speech aboard Air Force One. He emphasized that Hamas leaders have the power to end the conflict immediately by adhering to the ceasefire agreement until October 6. Kirby also called on Hamas to release hostages as a demonstration of their commitment to creating a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Palestine.

In response to these remarks, Kirby clarified that while he does not support the creation of a Palestinian state under Hamas control. This statement underscores