Deadline passes without Gaza ceasefire as Hamas fails to provide names of first hostages to be freed

We are considering recognising the state of Palestine.”

Britain, with its historical familiarity with the Middle East, appears to have opted for a diplomatic gesture, with its seasoned foreign minister declaring

Antony BlinkenuS secretary of state

I believe we will get a ceasefire,

US secretary of state Antony Blinken said

Gideon Sa'arisraeli Foreign Minister

Hamas was obliged to provide the names of the first female hostages to be released at 4:00 p.m. yesterday (1400 GMT on Sunday),

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told journalists shortly after the ceasefire started

Donald Trumpelect

We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!”

It didn’t take long for President-elect Donald Trump to post on Truth Social

Donald Trumpelect

With this deal in place, my National Security team, through the efforts of Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven,

Mr Trump said in a second post