The Israeli government and Hamas say that they are in the final stages of indirect talks over a deal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Hamas has reportedly agreed to a draft of a multi-phase cease-fire deal with Israel that would include the release of hostages who were taken into Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023.

Mediator Qatar said on Tuesday that a Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas is closer than at any time in the past, as the Israelis also expressed optimism over the release of hostages.

Officials have expressed mounting optimism that they can conclude an agreement in the coming days after more than a year of talks that have repeatedly stalled.

Mediator Qatar said Israel and the Palestinian militant group were at the “closest point” yet to sealing a deal

Palestinian health officials say Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip have killed at least 18 people overnight, including women and children

Two officials involved in the talks told The Associated Press that Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages. An Israeli official said progress has been made,