Gaza Ceasefire Talks Continue Amid Rising Death Toll

Hamas is consulting with other Palestinian factions on a US-backed Gaza ceasefire and hostage release proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt, with a formal response expected soon and generally positive indications but requests for minor amendments. The proposal outlines a 60-day ceasefire, phased Israeli withdrawal, staggered hostage releases, and increased humanitarian aid, though Hamas seeks guarantees on aid control and an extended ceasefire if talks stall. Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have intensified, with dozens of Palestinians killed daily, including civilians sheltering in schools, and the reported death toll has surpassed 57,000 since October 2023. The new de facto Hamas military leader in Gaza, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, opposes releasing all hostages before a total end to the war and full Israeli withdrawal, complicating negotiations. US President Donald Trump and Israeli officials express hope for an imminent agreement amid a worsening humanitarian crisis. Regional and international diplomatic efforts continue as both sides weigh the prospects and terms of a ceasefire.