Hamas is seeking firm guarantees that a proposed US-backed ceasefire would lead to a permanent end to the war, amid intensified Israeli strikes that killed at least 73 people on Thursday, according to Gaza’s civil defence.
US President Donald Trump, preparing to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week, said he wants “safety” for Gaza’s civilians and aims to push for a ceasefire, according to Al Jazeera.
Netanyahu vowed to secure the release of all hostages still held by Hamas. The October 7, 2023, attacks killed 1,139 people in Israel, with over 200 taken captive. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 57,000 dead and 134,000 wounded since the war began.
