Hamas denounced on Saturday the United States for what it called a distortion of the facts, rejecting a recent accusation that the group preferred conflict over a deal to release hostages held in Gaza.
The statement responded to comments made earlier in the week by US National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes.
"The claim that 'Hamas chose war instead of releasing the hostages' is a distortion of the facts," Hamas said, arguing that Israel and the US are obstructing ceasefire efforts.
