Israel to Negotiate Gaza Deal Despite Hamas Demands, Netanyahu Says

Israel to Negotiate Gaza Deal Despite Hamas Demands

Despite calling Hamas's demands "unacceptable," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to send a delegation to Qatar for proximity talks regarding a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release.

Hamas's Response and Demands

Hamas had earlier responded with a "positive" response to a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire. A Palestinian official said the group sought amendments. These include guarantees that hostilities would not resume if talks on a permanent truce failed.

Casualties and Aid

In Gaza, at least 35 Palestinians were reportedly killed by Israeli strikes. Two American aid workers from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation were wounded in an alleged grenade attack. Israel and the US blamed Hamas for the attack, but Hamas has not commented.

Proposed Deal and Demands

The proposed deal includes a phased hostage release for Palestinian prisoners and increased aid to Gaza, managed by the UN. Hamas is seeking assurances on troop withdrawals and a US guarantee against renewed Israeli operations.

Trump is also interested to help reach a big deal on hostages. Hostage families rallied in Tel Aviv, urging a comprehensive agreement.