"Hamas Drops Unreasonable Cease-Fire Condition in Israeli Hostage Talks"
Hamas has dropped its initial demand for multiple monthslong cease-fires in negotiations with Israel regarding hostages, now proposing an exchange of 120 Palestinian prisoners for 40 hostages. The complex negotiations involve Egypt, Qatar, the United States, and Israel, with no agreement reached yet. This development follows Israel's strategy shift in Gaza to more targeted strikes on Hamas and a partial troop withdrawal, aligning with Western concerns over civilian casualties. Israeli officials estimate 133 hostages remain, while the U.S. expresses uncertainty about their status. Prime Minister Netanyahu anticipates the conflict will continue for many more months.