The Hamas militant group in Gaza urged Washington to pressure Israel for a permanent ceasefire in the region as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his Mideast tour. Blinken expressed hope for a truce and hostage release deal amidst ongoing fighting in Gaza.
Hamas submitted a response to mediators for a ceasefire, to which Israel has not yet agreed. The UN-supported plan involves a ceasefire, a prisoner exchange, and Gaza’s reconstruction.
Meanwhile, violence along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon intensified, with Hezbollah rockets targeting Israel. Israeli strikes and Hezbollah’s threats have raised concerns for further escalation.