Qatar has emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting what it called a ‘positive response’ from Hamas to a new truce proposal. The plan, similar to an earlier US-brokered offer previously accepted by Israel, calls for a sixty-day pause in fighting, the release of some hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, expanded humanitarian aid, and negotiations toward a lasting settlement. Israel, however, is maintaining its stance that the war will continue until Hamas disarms and all hostages are freed. Foreign minister Israel Katz says that fear of Israel’s plans to occupy Gaza city is bringing Hamas back to the negotiating table. Meanwhile, conditions in Gaza remain dire. The UN has warned that the minimal aid entering Gaza is far from sufficient, with hunger-related deaths increasing. Officials blame Israeli restrictions on humanitarian supplies, warning of imminent famine. Breaking news: Israel is calling up 60,000 reservists in preparation for its planned invasion of Gaza. See