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isra rejected a ceasefire proposal by Hamas.

The offer reported by Reuters was based on a two-stage agreement where Israeli

hostages, women, children and elderly first among them would be released in

exchange for more than 700 Palestinian prisoners.

The second stage would see a discussion of a permanent ceasefire

and the withdrawal of Israeli forces in Gaza.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's Prime Minister, said it was a, quote, ridiculous proposal based

on, quote, unrealistic demands.

However, Mr. Netanyahu said that Israeli officials would travel to Qatar

to proceed with negotiations.

Russia launched a missile attack on Odessa, a Ukrainian city on the Black Sea coast,

killing at least 20 people in injuring more than 75.

The city has often been targeted by Russia due to its tactical symbolic and economic significance.

It is home to a vast port vital to Ukraine's Black Sea exports. The G7 warned Iran that it would be hit by

retaliatory measures if it continues to supply Russia with military equipment.

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