Hamas Signals Truce Approval Day

Palestinian media on July 3rd largely prioritized evolving ceasefire negotiations, with increasing focus on Hamas's potential response to the US-backed proposal. Early reports detailed aspects of a multi-phase prisoner exchange and a 60-day truce, following the prior day's discussions on truce terms. Throughout the morning, more specifics emerged, indicating the deal would not require Hamas leadership expulsion. By early afternoon, outlets reported Hamas nearing approval of the Qatari-Egyptian proposal, expressing satisfaction with its guarantees. This culminated in widespread evening reports expecting Hamas's affirmative response tonight. Concurrently, headlines continued to document severe human tolls from ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza, framing them as "genocide" and highlighting casualties among aid seekers. Discussions of Israel's intent to "complete occupation" persisted, even as diplomatic momentum for a deal grew. President Trump's anticipation of a deal announcement next week also featured prominently.