Hamas Responds to US-Backed Ceasefire Plan - Hamas has officially responded to a US-backed proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, seeking a full halt to the conflict. A senior Hamas official stated that their acceptance hinges on Israel's commitment to a permanent ceasefire.

Proposal Details and Reactions
The proposed plan, endorsed by the UN Security Council on Monday, suggests a six-week ceasefire that would transition into a permanent truce. Hamas, along with its ally Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), expressed their willingness to reach an agreement.

"The response prioritizes the interests of our Palestinian people and emphasizes the necessity of a complete halt to the ongoing aggression on Gaza," stated Hamas and PIJ. They added their readiness "to engage positively to reach an agreement that ends this war."

International Mediation
Qatar and Egypt, along with the US, have been mediating negotiations between Israel and Hamas. They confirmed Hamas had submitted its reply to the ceasefire plan.

John Kirby, White House national security spokesperson, found it "helpful" that Hamas had responded, indicating US officials are evaluating the group's requests. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reaffirmed his commitment to the ceasefire plan and awaited Hamas's response.

Ceasefire Plan Overview
President Biden's proposal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire where Hamas would release some hostages in exchange for Israel releasing an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners. The second phase includes the release of all remaining hostages by Hamas and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, aiming for a permanent ceasefire.

Israeli Government Position
While Netanyahu's war cabinet has approved the plan, he has not fully endorsed it publicly. Far-right members of his cabinet have threatened to quit and potentially collapse the coalition if the deal proceeds, viewing it as a concession to Hamas.

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