Hamas rejects 'false accusations' by US over alleged changed ceasefire demands

Hamas rejected what it called "false accusations" made by the US that it "moved the goal post" and changed its demands in the ceasefire negotiations.

In a press release, the Palestinian group said the American statement bore "no relation to reality" and accused Washington of being a "full partner in the war of extermination against our people". 

The group added that its demands have been "clear from day one" and that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government are the ones obstructing the deal.

"The demands of Hamas and the resistance have been clear from day one, and they are the same as those presented last March and were welcomed by all parties and mediators.

"The demands represent the national position of our people and their interests in the necessity of a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of the occupation forces, and the return of the displaced to their places of residence in all areas of the Gaza Strip, intensifying relief and starting reconstruction."