A senior Hamas official announced on Friday (Nov 15) that the group is “ready for a ceasefire” in Gaza, calling on United States President-elect Donald Trump to “pressure” Israel to halt its ongoing military campaign.
This announcement follows Qatar’s decision to suspend its role as a mediator in the conflict, urging all parties to demonstrate “seriousness” in resolving the crisis. Doha-based Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim stated that Hamas supports a ceasefire if Israel also commits to it, emphasizing demands for the withdrawal of military forces, the return of displaced people, a prisoner exchange, and the entry of humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts.
Qatar, which has facilitated indirect negotiations, has paused its mediation efforts until further commitment is shown by both parties. According to Majed Al Ansari, Doha’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Qatar will only resume its role when “willingness and seriousness” are evident.
Meanwhile, Gaza continues to face heavy bombardment, with strikes destroying homes in Deir el-Balah, leading to civilian casualties. Local residents, such as Mohamed Baraka, expressed despair, urging an end to the war due to the toll on innocent lives.
The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, with a Hamas attack on Israel, has resulted in over 1,200 deaths in Israel and nearly 43,800 deaths in Gaza, according to local and international sources. Concerns over the fate of hostages abducted by Hamas remain high, especially following Qatar’s withdrawal from mediation efforts.
On the Lebanese front, Israeli forces continue operations against Hezbollah strongholds in southern Beirut, intensifying a campaign that began in October last year. Recent airstrikes targeted areas in Ghobeiri and Bourj al-Barajneh, causing significant destruction and casualties. Lebanese officials report over 3,380 deaths since the conflict with Hezbollah escalated.
