A senior Hamas official positively welcomed the ceasefire achieved between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, stating that they are also ready to establish a ceasefire in Gaza. THEY BLAMED ISRAELThe official stated in an interview with AFP, "We informed the mediators in Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey that Hamas is ready for a serious agreement on a ceasefire and prisoner exchange," and blamed Israel for the failure to reach an agreement. OFFICIALS HAD SIGNALLEDU.S. and Israeli officials had expressed hope that the cessation of Hezbollah's military support following the ceasefire in Lebanon could lead Hamas to seek peace. According to Jerusalem, although Hamas has long claimed to want a ceasefire, it is reluctant to accept Israel's demands regarding hostages. International mediators have pointed out that Israel's demands regarding the presence of soldiers in Gaza also pose an obstacle, placing the responsibility for the deadlock on both sides.
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