Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire and possible hostage release are in the final stages, Fox News has learned.
The agreement could include the possible release of hostages and a temporary end to the fighting to allow humanitarian aid to reach the region.
“Final details appear to be being discussed for a ceasefire that would halt up to five days of fighting in Gaza and release some hostages,” Fox News’ Trey Yingst reported from Israel Tuesday afternoon. Ta.
“According to Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, we understand that an agreement is close,” Yingst reported. “According to reports, this includes the release of dozens of Israeli and foreign hostages. The only hostages believed to be women and children will be exchanged.” [Palestinian] Prisoners of war are being held in Israel. ”
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Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, seen from southern Israel, Wednesday, October 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Ariel Shalit)
He said the hopeful news was announced amid “heavy fighting in the Gaza Strip as Israeli forces march across the strip. The group said it had targeted a stronghold and killed dozens of insurgents.
Reuters similarly reported that Hamas officials were “close to reaching a ceasefire agreement” with Israel. They also cited a statement by Ismail Haniyeh.
Reuters reported that Qatari mediators had previously sought an agreement in which Israel would release some of its prisoners and require Hamas to release 50 hostages on condition of a three-day cease-fire.
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Details such as how long the ceasefire will last and how many hostages will ultimately be released were not available at this time.
Hamas took about 240 hostages from Israel in a terrorist attack on October 7, invaded Israel, and killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians.
