Gaza conflict: Hamas vows no Israel ceasefire

[link to m.bbc.com]

A reclusive Hamas commander has rejected suggestions the Palestinian militants are ready for a ceasefire with Israel to end violence in Gaza.

In an audio recording, Mohammad Deif, commander of Hamas' military wing, said his soldiers were "eager for death".

His message emerged at the end of a destructive day in Gaza that left the territory's power plant in flames.

Israeli strikes killed more than 100 Palestinians, raising the total killed to more than 1,200, Gaza officials say.

Most of those deaths have been civilians, and 6,700 Palestinians have been injured, according to the Gaza health ministry.

Israel has seen 53 of its soldiers die since conflict with Hamas began on 8 July. Two civilians and a Thai worker have also died.

'End the siege'

As international pressure for a ceasefire grows, Israel and Hamas have each reiterated their positions and aims.

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