Responding to Hamas claims that negotiations over a ceasefire-hostage deal are being delayed by Israel imposing new conditions, the Prime Minister’s Office blames the Gaza-based group for getting in the way of an agreement.

“The terrorist organization Hamas is lying again,” says the PMO in a statement, “reneging on the understandings already reached, and continuing to make it difficult for the negotiations.”

“Nevertheless, Israel will continue tirelessly in its efforts to bring home all of our hostages.”

Gaps between Israel and the Hamas terror group over a possible deal have narrowed, according to Israeli and Palestinian officials’ remarks earlier this week, though crucial differences have yet to be resolved. Hamas is reportedly yet to hand over a list of the hostages, living or dead, to be released in the first stage of a potential truce.