Qatar confirms Hamas ‘Positive’ response to ceasefire proposal amid rising Gaza death toll

Gaza: Hopes for a ceasefire in the war-ravaged Gaza Strip have been revived as Qatar confirmed that Hamas has given a “positive” response to a proposed ceasefire agreement, which includes a 60-day truce. However, Israel has yet to issue an official reply.

The diplomatic development comes amid continued bloodshed. At least 26 more Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours as Israeli airstrikes and ground assaults targeted several areas across the besieged enclave, according to local health authorities and Arab media outlets.

Among the latest casualties, eight people were reportedly killed in Israeli attacks on tents sheltering displaced individuals in Khan Younis. Four others died in a similar strike on a tent in Deir al-Balah. Witnesses also reported intense fighting in eastern Gaza City’s Tuffah neighborhood, where Israeli forces have been accused of demolishing homes.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health says the total number of people killed in Gaza since the war began has now surpassed 62,000, with more than 156,000 wounded. The majority of the dead are women and children.

In a separate statement, the United Nations Human Rights Office criticized Israel for failing to prevent widespread starvation across Gaza. The region’s Health Ministry confirmed that at least three more people—believed to be children—died from malnutrition, underscoring the collapse of humanitarian conditions.

Despite international efforts to mediate a ceasefire, the conflict, now entering its second year, shows little sign of abating. Humanitarian agencies continue to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, unfettered access for aid, and the protection of civilians.

The proposed ceasefire deal reportedly includes a temporary truce, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid deliveries. Qatar, Egypt, and the United States are among the key mediators pushing for the agreement.

The world now watches for Israel’s official response—one that could determine whether a path toward de-escalation is still possible.