Istanbul: The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has denied claims by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that it had reneged on a cease-fire agreement announced by mediators. Hamas emphasized its commitment to the cease-fire deal, underscoring the group's dedication to maintaining peace in the region.
According to Anadolu Agency, senior Hamas leader Izzat al-Rishq released a statement affirming the group's commitment to the cease-fire. Netanyahu's office had earlier stated that the Israeli Cabinet would not ratify the agreement until Hamas approved it. Israel's Security Cabinet was scheduled to meet on Thursday to discuss the deal.
In other regional developments, Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani arrived in Damascus for talks with Syria's new government. This trip marks his first visit to Syria since the fall of the Bashar Assad regime. The Qatari Foreign Ministry confirmed that the prime minister will engage in discussions with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the leader of the transitional Syrian administration.
Meanwhile, Turkey has condemned a US decision to make the Greek Cypriot Administration eligible for arms sales and military training. The Turkish Foreign Ministry released a statement aligning with the views of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, calling the decision a "grave mistake" that could escalate tensions on the island.
In brief news, the Romanian presidential elections are set for May 4, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for international support for Gaza's people. Ukraine and the UK signed a long-term defense cooperation agreement. Russian and Chinese officials welcomed the cease-fire and prisoner exchange in Gaza, expressing hopes for broader normalization and effective implementation of the deal.
In sports, Manchester United's Amad Diallo scored a quick hat-trick, leading his team to a 3-1 victory over Southampton. In the EuroLeague, Olympiacos Piraeus maintained their lead with a win against Real Madrid.
On the economic front, US stocks fell due to disappointing macroeconomic figures, despite a previous rally. The World Bank has projected a 2.7% growth for the global economy in 2025 and 2026, though developing economies are expected to face slower progress compared to advanced economies.