Israel Pounds Gaza Amid Hostage Standoff, Hamas Seeks Ceasefire Negotiations

Israel continues its military assault on Gaza City, urging Hamas to surrender and release hostages to end the conflict, while Hamas insists on a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal as conditions for releasing captives. Hamas has reaffirmed its commitment to a recent ceasefire proposal and expressed willingness to negotiate humanitarian relief and a prisoner exchange, accusing Israel of obstructing peace efforts and escalating violence. The group also condemned Israeli actions as genocide and called on the international community, including the UN, to take punitive measures against Israel, which it holds responsible for mass civilian casualties and violations of international law. Behind the scenes, U.S. and regional mediators are working to revive ceasefire talks and prisoner exchange negotiations, amid internal Israeli debates about the military campaign's costs and mounting pressure on Prime Minister Netanyahu. Meanwhile, Hamas appealed to the UN following Israel's rejection of a ceasefire offer, while Israel's plans to annex large parts of the West Bank have drawn criticism from Palestinians and Arab neighbors, further complicating prospects for peace. The situation remains tense with ongoing hostilities, diplomatic efforts, and calls for urgent humanitarian intervention.