Amid reports Hamas has accepted a deal to release half of the hostages who are still alive, Israeli official says the country still rejects partial deals that do not free all of the hostages.

RAFAH, Egypt (AP) — Hamas said Monday it has accepted a new proposal from Arab mediators for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that would still need Israel’s approval, as Gaza’s Health Ministry said the Palestinian death toll from 22 months of war has passed 62,000.

Protesters in Israel escalated their ongoing campaign on Sunday to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.

Nearly two years of demonstrations have failed to push Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal with Hamas that would end the war and free the remaining captives.

Families of hostages held in Gaza are stepping up their campaign to secure their release by holding a strike across Israel.

Large crowds of Israelis took to the streets on Sunday, launching a nationwide grassroots strike and widespread protests to demand the government secure the release of 50 hostages still in Gaza.

Hamas said it was prepared to coordinate with the Red Cross to deliver aid to hostages it holds in Gaza, if Israel meets certain conditions.

President Trump echoed the need to expand the war in Gaza, saying that the remaining 50 hostages can only be freed once Hamas is completely eradicated.