Rabat – The ongoing Qatari-hosted talks are reportedly nearing a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel.
The news comes as talks between Hamas and Israel, through mediation of Qatar, Egypt, and the US, kicked off on Monday.
Qatari Foreign Minister spokesman Majed al-Ansari confirmed that recent talks have seen positive progress between the two parties.
He urged both sides to “seriously engage in negotiations … so that the people of Gaza can have the respite that they need.”
But until there’s an official ceasefire announcement, al-Ansari stressed the need for measured expectations.
US President-elect Donald Trump has stated that a ceasefire in Gaza is “very close” and might be concluded by “the week.”
Speaking of the details of the deal, President Joe Biden said it would include freeing “the hostages,” ending the war, and providing Palestinians with humanitarian assistance.
Hamas has long conditioned the freeing of hostages to Israel’s agreeing to end its genocidal war on Gaza.
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Leaked information suggests that the deal would allow for the release of 33 Israelis, including children, women – some female soldiers, elderly, and sick captives, in exchange of Palestinian prisoners, as well as a 16-day ceasefire.
Children in Gaza expressed joy following hearing the news of a potential ceasefire deal in the coming days. Photos and footage have gone viral on social media of the Palestinian children dancing in anticipation of the promised ceasefire.
Yet, even as ceasefire talks are reportedly going to a close conclusion, Israeli Occupation Forces have (IOF) continued to bombard civilians in Gaza.
Medical sources reported at least 24 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip since dawn on Monday.
Israel’s genocide in Gaza has claimed near 46,600 dead and 109,660 injured palestinians since October 7, 2023.
