Militant group hardening its negotiating position in ceasefire talks amid new violence in territoryThe current fragile pause in hostilities in Gaza has come under further threat with Hamas hardening its negotiating positions amid new Israeli airstrikes in the devastated territory.The first phase of the ceasefire agreement ended two weeks ago but Israel is refusing to implement the scheduled second phase, which is supposed to end with its withdrawal from Gaza, the freedom of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, and a definitive end to the conflict. Continue reading...
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed nine Palestinians, prompting Hamas to accuse Israel of undermining ceasefire efforts. Hamas hardened its negotiating position, demanding Israel implement the original ceasefire agreement for hostage release, including a living American-Israeli hostage. The US rebuffed Hamas' demands as impractical, while accusing them of stalling. The current pause is threatened amid ongoing airstrikes and restricted aid entering Gaza.