Hamas has agreed to a draft ceasefire and hostage release plan for the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing conflict with Israel that began in October 2023, according to two officials involved in the negotiations. Following extensive discussions in Qatar, mediators from the United States and Qatar indicated that both parties are nearing a final agreement, which could bring an end to the 15-month-long war.
An Israeli official confirmed that significant progress has been made, and the details of the deal are currently being finalized. The negotiations have been focused on securing the release of hostages taken during Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Reports suggest that around 100 hostages remain captive in Gaza.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that a ceasefire deal is "right on the brink" and could be announced within hours or days. The proposed agreement is expected to unfold in three phases, starting with the release of 33 hostages over a six-week period, followed by further negotiations for additional releases.