The head of Hamas in Gaza, Khalil al-Hayya, said in a pre-recorded speech on Thursday the group had not rejectedthe latest US proposal for a ceasefire with Israel but demanded changes that would secure the end of the war on the enclave, Reuters reports.

The group was ready to engage in a new round of ceasefire talks, and communication with mediating countries was ongoing, he added. The latest US proposal was came via President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.

“The movement (Hamas) didn’t reject the Witkoff proposal, but we have demanded some remarks and improvement to ensure an end to the war,” Hayya, who is also chief Hamas negotiator, said in a pre-recorded video speech.

Hayya reiterated demands for an end to the war and withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, conditions Israel has rejected.