Hamas has doubled down on its demand for a full end to Israel’s Gaza offensive as part of any hostage deal, while dismissing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s fiery ultimatum to free captives before his inauguration as “rash.” With mediators racing to broker a truce, both sides accuse each other of stonewalling progress. 🔥
Qatari and Egyptian-led talks continue in Doha, with Israel sending mid-level officials to negotiate. Hamas insists any agreement must include a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel vows to keep fighting until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are freed. 💥
The clock is ticking 🕒: Over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, per local health officials, while 1,200 Israelis died in Hamas’ initial attack. Recent Israeli airstrikes killed at least 24 Palestinians Tuesday, including children in Khan Younis, medics report.
Though Hamas confirmed reviewing Israel’s list of 34 hostages for potential release, PM Netanyahu’s office says it hasn’t verified their survival. Meanwhile, Trump’s “hell to pay” warning drew sharp criticism from Hamas, which called for “more disciplined” U.S. diplomacy. 🇺🇸
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Gaza’s health ministry urgently appealed for fuel to keep hospitals running. With Biden’s term ending and Trump’s looming, the world watches to see if peace can prevail—or if the cycle of violence will spiral further. 🌍⚖️
