Hamas dismisses truce

A senior Hamas official has rejected US President Joe Biden's claims that a ceasefire in Gaza is near, calling it an 'illusion' and an imposition of American dictates. This response follows Biden's comments after negotiations in Qatar aimed at bridging gaps between Israel and Hamas, which have been at conflict for over 10 months. Despite ongoing discussions, Hamas insists on adhering to the original ceasefire proposal, which involves a phased truce and a prisoner exchange, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the stalled talks and called for pressure on them to accept a modified US plan. Israeli military actions continue in Gaza and Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, further complicating efforts for a ceasefire. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Israel to finalize an agreement, as international diplomats strive to prevent a wider regional conflict fueled by recent retaliatory threats from Hezbollah and Iran. The situation remains dire, with humanitarian concerns rising amidst the violence, including a recent polio case reported in Gaza after 25 years.