Jerusalem (PTI): In a major breakthrough, a top Hamas leader has said that the Palestinian outfit would "cooperate with efforts to achieve a ceasefireagreement" with Israel and to reopen Gaza border.

"Hamas does not have the physical might to withstand Israel's war machine and will cooperate with efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement with Israel and to reopen Gazaborder crossings," Ismail Haniyeh said in his message aired on Hamas television.

In his second taped message since Israel launched its offensive against Gaza, Haniyeh declared that Hamas was determined to continue fighting against Israel.

"Gaza will not break, our victory over the enemies isnear," he said in a fiery speech.

"When we watch over you, residents of Gaza, we drawpatience and will power from you," the deposed Prime Ministerwho led his faction to a massive electoral victory in January2006 Palestinian Legislative Council elections said.