Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas called on Hamas to release hostages it is holding in order to eliminate Israel's pretext to continue its war in Gaza. Abbas referred to Hamas as 'sons of dogs' and demanded that they hand over the American hostages. He also called on Hamas to cede control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority and become a political party. Abbas made these remarks during a speech at the opening of the PLO Central Council meeting. Arab mediators are working on a proposal to end the Israel-Hamas war that would include a five- to seven-year truce and the release of all remaining hostages.