Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Hamas has expressed openness to a ceasefire in Gaza following the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. The terror group stated its commitment to cooperating with efforts to end aggression against the Palestinian people. Mediators in Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey have been informed of Hamas’s readiness for a ceasefire and a potential agreement on prisoner exchange, according to a Hamas official.

Despite Hamas’s willingness, officials have accused Israel of hindering the peace process. Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri mentioned the group’s flexibility in reaching a ceasefire and attributed the failure to Israel’s actions. The recent ceasefire in Lebanon has been acknowledged by Hamas, appreciating Lebanon’s efforts to protect its people and expressing hope for a resolution in Gaza.

Both Egypt and Qatar have shown optimism that the ceasefire could pave the way for a deal in Gaza. US President Joe Biden linked the ceasefires in Lebanon and Gaza, emphasizing the Palestinians’ right to security and prosperity akin to the Lebanese people. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the broader implications of reaching agreements in both regions, including potential positive impacts on ending conflict in Gaza.

Reports suggest that progress in the hostage deal negotiations could result from a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The possibility of Israel maintaining control over the Philadelphi Corridor in southern Gaza as part of the deal has surfaced. Israeli security officials believe that the military pressure on Hamas is nearing a breakthrough in negotiations.

The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at 4:00 a.m. local time, with Israeli forces set to withdraw from southern Lebanon over a 60-day period. The Lebanese military will deploy in the area, while Hezbollah is expected to move north of the Litani River. Contributions to this report were made by Sam Halpern, Hannah Sarisohn, and Reuters. This story is still unfolding.