Hamas has agreed to a draft ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip, alongside the release of some hostages, according to officials involved in the negotiations. The breakthrough, facilitated by U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators, marks the closest the parties have been to ending 15 months of conflict, which began after Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel.
Key Developments:
The agreement includes a ceasefire and the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas. The Associated Press has obtained the draft, and it has been verified by officials from Hamas, Egypt, and Israel. The details of the agreement are still being finalized, but an Israeli official confirmed significant progress.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism about the potential ceasefire, stating that it is “closer than ever before” and could be finalized within days.
Ongoing Efforts:
Since the war began, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have worked extensively to mediate a peace agreement and secure the release of hostages. Nearly 100 individuals remain captive inside Gaza, with military officials estimating that a third may have died.
The tentative agreement reflects a major step toward resolving the conflict, although further negotiations are ongoing to solidify the terms.
