"Challenges Persist in Reaching Gaza Ceasefire Deal, Despite Mixed Signals and Urgent Calls"

A senior Hamas official has stated that a ceasefire deal with Israel is not close, emphasizing the need for a total ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. While the US has expressed optimism for a ceasefire, Hamas believes this is not reflective of the situation on the ground and accuses the US of double standards. Hamas is willing to be flexible on some aspects of a potential deal, but insists on its non-negotiable demands, including a total ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal, and freedom of movement for Palestinians within Gaza. The group is seeking guarantors to ensure any deal is upheld by Israel. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has called for continued support for Gaza and urged Palestinians to protest against restrictions on access to Al-Aqsa Mosque.