Hamas has reportedly agreed to a draft cease-fire deal with Israel that would include the release of dozens of hostages, according to The Associated Press, which cited “officials involved in the talks.” This potential agreement is the first sign in months that the war between Israel and Hamas, which has gone one of over a year, could be nearing its end.
Details of the second phase are expected to be negotiated during the first. However, a draft agreement cited by the AP, indicates that during this phase, Hamas will release the remaining living hostages in exchange for a “complete withdrawal” of Israeli forces from Gaza. An Egyptian official allegedly told the AP that before the end of the first phase, there will be deals for phases two and three.
“This is the only time since November 2023 that we are really negotiating with Hamas, and they are not playing a game in negotiations,” an Israeli government official told FOX News.
The official cited multiple events, such as the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and domestic pressure against the terror group, as crucial turning points in creating the right “conditions” for a deal.
Qatari and Israeli officials who spoke with FOX News expressed optimism about the potential deal that could bring about an end to the war.
Thousands have been killed in the 15-month war, which started after Hamas’ brutal attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, in which more than 1,200 Israelis were killed and over 250 were taken hostage.
Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.
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