Hamas Seeks Lasting Ceasefire in Gaza

Hamas has expressed their desire for a "complete and comprehensive ceasefire" in Gaza amidst mediation led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

The call follows a conflict that began on October 7 due to Hamas' attacks on southern Israel.

The assertion from a senior Hamas official emerged after Qatar suggested a phased ceasefire plan. According to Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the proposal, shaped during talks in Paris with international security leaders, includes the initial release of women and child hostages and the delivery of aid to Gaza.

While details on Hamas' reception of the proposal are unclear, past mediation by Qatar yielded a week-long ceasefire and aid in November.

Since the conflict began, over a thousand have died in Israel, with Hamas detaining 250 hostages. In Gaza, Israeli offensives have claimed over 26,000 lives, primarily non-combatants.