Meanwhile, Israeli government is pushing for a new agreement to extend the truce during Ramadan in exchange for the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, while maintaining its military presence in the enclave
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Palestinian militant group Hamas said Saturday (March 8) that it sees “positive indicators” for launching talks over the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire.
Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif al Qanou said in a statement, “The efforts of Egyptian and Qatari mediators continue to push for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the start of the next phase, and the signs are positive.”
Qanou added that Hamas was ready to begin negotiations. “The delegation of leaders from the movement (Hamas), which has been in Cairo since yesterday, is discussing ways to initiate the negotiations for the second phase and compel the occupation (Israel) to attend,” the spokesperson added.
For the past week, the Islamist group has reiterated its commitment to advancing to the second phase of the ceasefire, even as indirect talks with Israel remain stalled.
Meanwhile, the Israeli government has pushed for a new agreement to extend the truce during Ramadan in exchange for the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, while maintaining its military presence in the enclave.
Trump’s ‘final warning’
Hamas’ call to start negotiations comes days after US President Donald T
rump issued his “final warning” to the militant group.
On Wednesday, Trump vowed to punish Hamas further and destroy Gaza if all remaining hostages were not released.
“Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you,” he wrote on his Truth Social platform after meeting freed hostages.
“This is your last warning! For the leadership, now is the time