Hamas has agreed to the terms of a ceasefire (Image: GETTY)
A ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been reached, the group and Qatari officials have told multiple news outlets.
The deal includes a six-week initial ceasefire phase, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of hostages held by Hamas and the release of Palestinian detainees held by , Reuters reports.
Qatari and Hamas officials had said earlier today (Wednesday, January 15) that a last-minute dispute in ceasefire talks between and Hamas had been resolved.
had accused Hamas of trying to change agreed understandings over security arrangements along Gaza’s border with Egypt.
Qatar’s prime minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, who has been mediating the talks, met separately with Hamas and Israeli delegations.
Soon afterwards the dispute was resolved, according to a Qatari official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the negotiations.
The Hamas official, also speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the matter was resolved, seemingly paving the way for the deal.
The agreement still needs to be approved by the Cabinet of ‘s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but is expected to come into effect in the next few days.
An initial six-week halt to fighting is expected as part of the deal, accompanied by the opening of negotiations on ending the war altogether.
Over six weeks, 33 of the nearly 100 hostages taken by militants on October 7, 2023, are to be reunited with their loved ones after months in in captivity and no contact with the outside world. It remains unclear, however, if all are alive.
It is also unclear exactly when and how many displaced Palestinians will be able to return to what remains of their homes and whether the agreement will lead to a complete end to the war and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, these being key Hamas demands for releasing the remaining captives.
Don’t miss… [REVEALED] [REPORT]
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit:
Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow our social media accounts here on and @daily_express