**Hamas Dismisses Negotiations Amid Israel's Escalation Plans for Gaza**

**A senior Hamas official has rejected the notion of continuing discussions for a ceasefire, insisting that Israel's military actions render talks meaningless. This development comes as Israel prepares to intensify its operations in Gaza, raising concerns from global leaders about the potential humanitarian consequences.**

A spokesperson for Hamas has asserted that ongoing peace talks are pointless following Israel's announcement of an extended military campaign in Gaza. Bassem Naim emphasized to BBC that the group will not consider new proposals while Israel maintains what he described as a "war of starvation."

Israeli government officials clarified the aims of their upcoming offensive, which they claim could lead to the displacement of a significant portion of Gaza's population, estimated at 2.1 million. Their stated goals include securing the release of hostages believed to be held by Hamas and achieving a decisive defeat of the organization.

This escalation is timed to occur after U.S. President Donald Trump's planned visit next week, which Israeli officials have termed a "window of opportunity" for Hamas to engage in negotiations. However, the international reaction has been predominantly critical, with significant disapproval voiced by the United Kingdom, France, and the United Nations.

UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed serious concerns regarding the ongoing military plans, warning that they could lead to numerous civilian casualties and extensive further damage to Gaza. Humanitarian organizations have also condemned Israel's strategy to channel aid via private firms at military sites, deeming it a violation of humanitarian principles that they refuse to support.