Qatari mediators have set out the framework for a deal between Israel and Hamas that could see a three-day ceasefire and the release of 50 hostages, an official briefed on the negotiations has told Reuters.
Other conditions in the proposed agreement, according to the official, include:
- The release of some Palestinian women and children from Israeli jails
- An increase in the amount of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza
- Hamas handing over a complete list of remaining living civilian hostages held in Gaza
If agreed by both sides, it would mark the largest number of hostages released by Hamas since the conflict began on 7 October.
More than 200 people, including women and children, are being held by the militant group in Gaza.
Hamas has agreed to the general outlines of the deal, but Israel has not and is still negotiating the details, the official said.
The scope of the Qatari-led negotiations has changed significantly in recent weeks.
But, the fact the talks are now focused on the release of 50 hostages in exchange for a three-day truce and Hamas has agreed to the outline has not been reported before.
The wealthy Gulf state of Qatar has a direct line of communication with Hamas and Israel, and has previously helped mediate truces between the two.
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