Hamas has accepted a U.S. proposal to begin negotiations on releasing Israeli hostages, including soldiers, following 16 days of a new phase aimed at ending the Gaza war, a senior Hamas source told Reuters. The militant group dropped its demand for a permanent ceasefire before starting talks, allowing for negotiations during the six-week first phase.
The move comes as the conflict, which began in October, has resulted in over 38,000 Palestinian and 1,200 Israeli deaths. Efforts for a ceasefire and hostage release have intensified, with the U.S., Israel, and Qatar leading mediation efforts. Israeli forces continue military strikes in Gaza, killing at least 29 Palestinians in the past 24 hours.
Families of hostages urged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to accept the deal, expressing hope for the first time in months. The new proposal guarantees a temporary ceasefire and aid delivery during the negotiations.
