Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem says the group is still in contact with negotiators to push for the implementation of the remaining stages of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

Qassem told Al Jazeera Arabic that the group wants Israel to engage in negotiations on the second phase of the agreement, which Hamas remained committed to. Israel has so far refused, saying it wants all its living captives out first.

Israel has cut off the delivery of food, fuel, medicine and other supplies to Gaza’s 2.3 million Palestinians in an attempt to pressure Hamas into accepting its new arrangement. It has threatened “additional consequences” if Hamas does not resume the release of captives.