Kathmandu: A senior Hamas official told BBC that mediators are intensifying efforts to reach a new agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages; however, direct talks with Israel have not yet taken place.
This statement comes as US President Donald Trump announced that “great progress” has been made since Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire.
Trump claimed that his special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Whitcraft, believes Israel and Hamas are “very close” to a deal.
Meanwhile, the Hamas-run Ministry of Health reported that 45 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks on Wednesday.
Separately, the Israeli military confirmed that seven of its soldiers were killed in a bombing attack on Tuesday, for which Hamas has claimed responsibility.
