Hamas Seeks Guarantees on US Ceasefire Plan as Israeli Strikes Kill 59 More in Gaza

Hamas is demanding assurances that a proposed US-brokered ceasefire will ultimately end the ongoing war, as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 59 more people across Gaza on Thursday. While Israel’s officials expressed optimism about reaching a ceasefire and hostage deal nearly 21 months into the conflict, Hamas insists on clear guarantees for a permanent end to hostilities. The proposed 60-day ceasefire would include the staggered release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the return of 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Israel expects Hamas’ response by Friday. Meanwhile, deadly strikes continued, including an attack on a Gaza City school sheltering displaced families, and violence near an aid site, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.