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Hamas Accepts Ceasefire, Hostage Release Plan; Israel's Approval Pending

Jan 14, 2025, 11:49 AM

Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages, including 33 in the initial phase, according to officials involved in the talks in Cairo. Mediator Qatar announced that the negotiations are at the 'closest point' yet to sealing a deal, urging the parties to sign the agreement as soon as possible, with an announcement expected within the next 24 hours. Israel is still weighing the proposal, with Israeli officials indicating that progress has been made but that details are being finalized. The deal would involve Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for Israel freeing Palestinian prisoners. The plan requires approval by the Israeli Cabinet before implementation. Mediators Qatar, Egypt, and the United States are involved in finalizing the details.