Hamas says new Israeli conditions delaying Gaza ceasefire agreement

Hamas said on Wednesday Israel has set new conditions that have led to delays in reaching a Gaza ceasefire agreement but acknowledged that negotiations were still proceeding and the movement has shown responsibility and flexibility.

"The ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations are continuing in Doha under the mediation of Qatar and Egypt in a serious manner ... but the occupation has set new conditions concerning withdrawal (of troops), the ceasefire, prisoners and the return of displaced people, which has delayed reaching an agreement," Hamas said in a statement.

Israeli and Palestinian media reported that efforts led by Qatari, Egyptian and U.S. mediators have shown progress, though a breakthrough remains elusive.

Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas attack on the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage.

The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,361, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Wednesday.

(With input from agencies)