Israel’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza, where starvation is rampant, has prompted outcry from global leaders. France, Australia and Canada are among a growing number of countries that have called for Palestinian statehood. The United Kingdom said it will agree to recognize Palestine as a state if Israel does not accept a ceasefire deal.

Hamas says it has accepted a proposal from Arab mediators for a ceasefire in the 22-month war sparked by its 2023 attack into Israel.

It was unclear whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel was on board with the terms, which came as Qatar and Egypt were intensifying mediation efforts.