US and Arab mediators have made significant progress in talks over a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war and the release of scores of hostages held in the Gaza Strip, officials say. The negotiations are ongoing but no deal has been reached yet.
A US official briefed on the discussions said that all sides are “closer than we’ve ever been,” but warned that it could still fall apart. Two other officials, including one associated with Hamas, acknowledged that there were still hurdles to overcome.
The Qatari palace confirmed that the emir of Qatar spoke with Hamas’ delegation and US President-elect Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, in an effort to put renewed pressure on both sides. Egyptian officials said good progress was made overnight but a deal is likely still days away.
Hamas has demanded a full withdrawal and complete end to the war, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the campaign until “total victory” over the militant group. A phased ceasefire is being discussed, with Netanyahu committed only to the first phase of a partial hostage release in exchange for a weekslong halt in fighting.
Families of hostages hope for a deal that brings their loved ones home, while Palestinians and residents of Gaza push for an end to Israel’s military campaign, which has devastated much of the territory and driven around 90% of its population from their homes.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-ceasefire-talks-01-13-2025-395e030947f9964f3fbf5763b9564591