Blinken says Hamas response to ceasefire resolution a 'hopeful sign'

Speaking from Tel Aviv, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "reaffirmed his commitment" to a Gaza ceasefire deal during their meeting in Jerusalem.

Blinken also said he believes there is a "strong consensus" amongst Israeli leaders to move forward with the plan.

"This proposal and moving forward on it is the first step," he told reporters. "We want to see it come to fruition."

Blinken added that Hamas's welcoming of Monday's UN Security Council resolution was a "hopeful sign" and that while the US remains committed to the Palestinian group's defeat, military means are not sufficient.

"There has to be a clear political plan, a clear humanitarian plan, in order to ensure Hamas does not in any shape or form resume control of Gaza."