Ready to negotiate: "Hamas on Monday informed mediators that it accepted the ceasefire-hostage release deal proposal that was submitted to the group a day earlier, which sources said involves a 60-day pause and the release of 10 living captives, as mediators scramble to find an agreement before Israel launches its planned mission to conquer Gaza City," reports The Times of Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was described as having "dismissed" Hamas' response and proceeding as planned with the takeover of Gaza City and resettling of Palestinians to the southern part of the Strip. "We can see clearly that Hamas is under immense pressure," said Netanyahu.
The deal would involve Hamas releasing 10 living Israeli hostages in exchange for Israel releasing 150 Palestinian prisoners over the course of a 60-day truce, after which an extension is on the table. Netanyahu, however, has signaled that he is only interested in a deal that involves the release of all 20 living hostages.
But one thing Netanyahu will be forced to contend with is the dwindling public support for Israel's campaign in Gaza, both at home and abroad, as he enters the next phase of war.
