Militant group hardening its negotiating position in ceasefire talks amid new Israeli airstrikes in territory

The current fragile pause in hostilities in Gaza appeared to be under further threat on Saturday with Hamas hardening its negotiating positions amid new Israeli airstrikes in the devastated territory.

The first phase of the ceasefire agreement ended two weeks ago but Israel is refusing to implement the scheduled second phase, which is supposed to end with its withdrawal from Gaza, the freedom of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, and a definitive end to the conflict.