Hamas is currently weighing a U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire with Israel amid escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed over 40 people in just a matter of hours. In a statement, Hamas acknowledged the mediation efforts by Qatar and Egypt, stating they are conducting national consultations to discuss the ceasefire proposal, aimed at stopping the ongoing aggression and providing urgent relief to the people of Gaza. However, the group stopped short of a full endorsement, indicating a cautious approach to the U.S. plan.

This development comes on the heels of former President Donald Trump’s announcement that Israel had agreed to a 60-day ceasefire with Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a defiant response, emphasized his commitment to eliminating Hamas, declaring, “We’re not going back to that. It’s over.” The lack of an official Israeli confirmation on the ceasefire raises questions about the sincerity of the proposal and the potential for further violence.

The situation is fraught with tension as Hamas faces mounting pressure from both the U.S. and Israel. While the group’s statement hints at a desire for peace, it also reflects a strategic delay, buying time amidst threats that failure to accept the ceasefire could lead to even harsher consequences. The Israeli military is already taking steps to lift restrictions in areas near Gaza, signaling a potential shift in operations as the conflict escalates.

As the clock ticks, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with Hamas seeking guarantees for a lasting peace and Israel vowing to eradicate any trace of Hamas control. The world watches closely, as the next moves could determine the fate of countless lives caught in the crossfire of this ongoing conflict.