 has not given up that demand. Even so, the Hamas response to the U.S.-sponsored peace plan leaves open the possibility that negotiations will lead to a deal. A senior U.S. official said the Hamas response, quote, may provide the basis for closing the deal. Pressure is growing on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Protesters throughout Israel have been calling on him to stop, to step down, even as they continue pushing for a ceasefire and the return of the Hamas-held hostages.