Indirect talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza have stalled, according to a senior Hamas official cited by Reuters, while the territory’s death toll continues to rise. The latest figures put the number of Palestinians killed at more than 37,000, underscoring the scale of civilian suffering in the war.

The reported pause in negotiations comes as pressure grows on all sides to reach an agreement that could halt the fighting, free hostages and improve access to desperately needed aid. Mediation efforts have repeatedly faced setbacks as both Israel and Hamas accuse each other of blocking progress.

For civilians in Gaza, the breakdown in talks adds to an already dire humanitarian crisis. Families continue to face displacement, shortages of food and medicine, and widespread destruction across the enclave, with little sign of immediate relief.

Reuters reported that the Hamas official said the indirect discussions were no longer moving forward, though the broader diplomatic effort has not been formally abandoned. The impasse leaves the prospects for a near-term ceasefire uncertain as the war’s civilian toll keeps mounting.