American pressure has 'no value,' Hamas official retorts, even as administration official says proposed truce would ultimately lead to a permanent ceasefire, a core Hamas demand The post 18 countries demand hostage release;

The United States, alongside seventeen other nations, has issued a stark appeal to the Hamas militant group for the immediate liberation of hostages held in Gaza for over 200 days. The unified stance showcases a rare consensus among countries deeply concerned with the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the stagnant peace process in the region.

We strongly support the ongoing mediation efforts in order to bring our people home,” the leaders stated. “We reiterate our call on Hamas to release the hostages and let us end this crisis so that collectively we can focus our efforts on bringing peace and stability to the region.