Hamas calls for US to pressure Israel for Gaza truce

Hamas has urged the United States to apply significant pressure on Israel to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza, despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assertion that no deal is currently in progress. Netanyahu emphasized the necessity for Israel to maintain control over the Philadelphi Corridor to prevent arms smuggling to Hamas, which initiated the conflict with its attack on October 7. Hamas, however, argues that Netanyahu's stance is obstructing potential agreements and insists that a prior truce, outlined by President Biden, should suffice. Protests against Netanyahu's leadership have erupted in Israel, with demonstrators blaming him for the deaths of hostages and accusing him of failing to make essential concessions for a cease-fire. Amidst these tensions, Qatar has criticized Israel's approach, claiming it distorts facts and misleads public opinion, warning that such actions could jeopardize peace efforts. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with 97 hostages still held in Gaza, and the Israeli military has reported the deaths of at least 36 Palestinians in the West Bank since late August. Additionally, an Israeli airstrike recently killed six individuals in Gaza, further escalating the violence. In response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the World Health Organization has initiated a polio vaccination campaign, targeting over 640,000 children. The destruction of essential infrastructure due to the bombardment has exacerbated health concerns, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.