Hamas announced on Wednesday that it would abstain from participating in new Gaza ceasefire talks scheduled for Thursday in Qatar. The decision dashes hopes for a negotiated truce that Iranian sources suggest could avert an Iranian attack on Israel. The U.S. noted indirect talks would proceed as planned in Qatar's capital, Doha, despite the setback.
Three senior Iranian officials indicated that only a ceasefire agreement in Gaza could prevent Iran from launching direct retaliation against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last month. While Israel plans to send a delegation to the talks, Hamas insists on a specific plan to implement a previously accepted proposal rather than engaging in further negotiations.
Armed confrontations persist in Gaza, with Israeli forces responding to Hamas rocket fire. Israeli airstrikes have targeted rocket launch sites and militants, resulting in several fatalities. Palestinian health officials report escalating casualties, primarily in central and southern Gaza as both sides remain divided over terms for ending the hostilities.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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