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Hamas and Israel have reached a ceasefire that will lead to the release of some hostages being held by the terror group, officials announced.
“WE HAVE A DEAL FOR THE HOSTAGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST. THEY WILL BE RELEASED SHORTLY. THANK YOU!” President-elect Donald Trump wrote on TRUTH Social.
The first phase of the deal will last six weeks, and includes a “full and complete ceasefire,” a withdrawal of Israeli forces from the populated areas of Gaza, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas, President Joe Biden said in a televised appearance.
Senator Jim Risch, chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, announced the news in the middle of a nomination hearing for Senator Marco Rubio to become the next secretary of state.
The ceasefire proposal would take place in stages, officials confirmed to news outlets.
Hamas would release hostages it has been holding since the terrorist group launched its October 2023 attack on Israel, while Israeli authorities would release Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said Israel will not compromise on security, and will act if it sees a threat from Gaza in the future.
Months of negotiations led by the United States, Egypt and Qatar had failed to halt the fighting, but the effort gained momentum at a time when the United States is preparing for President-elect Donald Trump to take office on Jan. 20.
– Based on multiple reports.
