Key developments have emerged in the Gaza conflict ceasefire negotiations, with Hamas officially approving the draft agreement, raising hopes for a truce in the region.
According to media reports, Israel has agreed to release 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 33 hostages in the first phase of the deal.
However, Israel has refused to return the body of Yahya Sinwar, a senior Hamas leader.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that a ceasefire is expected within 24 hours. Israeli media confirmed Hamas’s formal approval of the agreement, and the signing process is set to commence.
The ceasefire could potentially begin on Thursday. Previously, two officials involved in the negotiations disclosed that Hamas had accepted the draft agreement for a truce in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Qatar, mediating the talks, mentioned that the two sides are closer than ever to resolving. The agreement aims to end the devastating conflict that has persisted for 15 months.
According to U.S. media, a proposed draft has been verified by both Egyptian officials and Hamas representatives.
An Israeli official acknowledged progress but indicated that details are still being finalized. The plan involves three phases of prisoner exchanges and ceasefire implementation, which must receive final approval from the Israeli cabinet.
Reports indicate that approximately 100 hostages are still held in Gaza, with Israeli forces estimating that at least one-third may have been killed.
Hamas had initially taken around 250 hostages during its attacks on October 7, which resulted in nearly 1,200 Israeli casualties.
In retaliation, Israeli forces launched continuous airstrikes on Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas. According to health officials in Gaza, over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in the ongoing conflict.
If finalized, the ceasefire agreement could provide much-needed relief for the people of Gaza, who have endured severe losses and destruction.
It also represents a significant step toward addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism, stating that the proposed agreement is close to becoming a reality.
Regional officials aim to finalize the deal before January 20, the inauguration date for President-elect Donald Trump, whose Middle East envoy is also participating in the negotiations.
